Cycling enthusiasts are looking forward to the “once in a lifetime” chance to see the Tour de France up close.

The third stage of this year’s race pass through villages in our area on July 7 as part of a 99-mile route from Cambridge to London.

Lobb’s Cycles, in Halstead High Street, is organising a ride to Radwinter, where a farmer has agreed to let the group use his land for the day.

Chris Lobb, who runs the shop with his dad Steve, is expecting 50 to 60 riders to set off from Halstead on the morning of the race.

He said: “We are cycling down because going along in cars will be a problem.

“The farmer has given us his land so we are going to leave here at 8.30am to 9am and get there by 11am, when the race caravans pass by.”

The race itself, featuring 200 riders including British stars Sir Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome, is expected to pass through at about 1pm.

Chris said: “It really is a once in a lifetime thing and I highly doubt it is going to come this close to Halstead again.

“I hope all the schools let the children get out there to sample the day - all ages should enjoy it.”

Lobb’s Cycles organises a regular social cycling group, which rides on Sundays.

For more information about the Tour de France ride, call the shop on 01787 478888.