A Tour de France veteran has given a talk in Otley to encourage other cyclists to take up their own fundraising challenge.

Malcolm Elliott, a rider in the 1987 and 1988 races, spoke at Chevin Cycles in support of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Malcolm, who talked to more than 20 local enthusiasts and cycling commentator Anthony McCrossan about his experiences, was in town to raise the profile of the charity’s Power Peloton.

The fundraising ride will take place on the opening day of the Tour’s Grand Depart, Saturday, July 5, and see 25 adept cyclists riding the Stage One route just hours before the race proper.

Mike Hughes, who has already signed up for the Peloton, also addressed the meeting: He said: “How often are you going to be able to do an event like this in your life? Only once.

“People should meet a Marie Curie nurse and understand the great work that they do.

“They are incredible, and they’ve really spurred me on with my fundraising and training.”

Malcolm, meanwhile, urged cyclists to create their own “personal euphoria” and take up the Peloton challenge.

The talk was organised by Marie Curie and the director of Chevin Cycles, Sanjai Bhatia. Mr Bhatia said: “It was brilliant for our loyal customers to be inspired by Malcolm’s achievements and Mike’s enthusiasm.

“We were delighted to host Marie Curie, and to encourage people to take part in the Peloton and raise money for a charity that supports so many people in the local area.”

The meeting also heard about some of the many fun ways people can support Marie Curie, the Grand Depart’s official charity partner, on the day.

To find out more about organising a Grand Départy event, visit mariecurie.org.uk/tourdefrance or call 0845 052 4184.

Mike Hughes’s fundraising can be supported by texting MJDH64 (amount) to 70070, while more details about the 190km Power Peloton Challenge are available by calling Cheryl Barrett on 07984 022066 or visiting mariecurie.org.uk/powerpeloton.

Each of the Power Peloton riders is aiming to raise £19,000, enough money to fund a Marie Curie nurse for a year.