A HELMET signed by Tour de France winner Chris Froome is poised to be the "wheel deal" in a fund-raiser to boost the work of a charity which offers support to those looking after a loved one in Wharfedale

As the countdown to Le Grand Depart gathers pace, this sought-after prize - autographed by the Team Sky rider - will be raising money for Bradford-based charity, the Carers' Resource, whose work extends into Ilkley and beyond.

Cycling fans have the chance to win his eye-catching KASK helmet, which comes with a letter of authenticity, for just £1 as it is raffled off at a variety of locations - including Ilkley Cycles in the town.

The winning ticket will be drawn on Monday, July 28, giving people plenty of time to secure a prized piece of cycling memorabilia.

Froome, who visited the county a few weeks ago to acclimatise himself with the route he will face for real on Saturday and Sunday, won the Tour de France last year and starts as favourite to notch up a rare double

"This is the biggest sporting weekend that Yorkshire has witnessed," said Anne Wells, the charity's events and find-raising coordinator.

"At the end of the race, one lucky person is going to be in possession of a helmet signed by one of the great legends in British cycling - and the perfect souvenir of a memorable occasion.

“All the money we raise will help us to support the county's ever-expanding army of carers."