ABOUT one million fans are expected to line the route to see some of the world's top cyclists in action for the three stages of the first-ever Tour de Yorkshire race at the beginning of May.

Craven features on the third stage of the race, between Wakefield and Leeds, when the riders will pass through Sutton-in-Craven, Cross Hills and Kildwick on the way to Silsden on Sunday, May 3.

Interest in the race is expected to be sky-high following the massive success of the Yorkshire stages of last year's Tour de France.

Organisers say there will be rolling road closures which should only affect places on the route for roughly an hour, apart from start and finish towns and some climbs where closures will be longer.

Cllr Richard Foster, Leader of Craven District Council, said: “The Tour de Yorkshire will provide another great opportunity for local businesses and communities in those towns and villages to work together to promote the area throughout the weekend. The event will also dovetail nicely with the Tour de France legacy work we are developing at the moment. ”