OTLEY is to get a batch of new cycling stands in time for the Tour de Yorkshire.

Leeds City Council has confirmed it hopes to have the Sheffield Stands in place, at five different spots, before the cycle race passes through on Sunday, May 3.

The authority hopes the equipment will encourage more people to use bicycles when travelling to the town centre.

The move has been welcomed by ward councillors.

Cllr Sandy Lay (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said: “This is fantastic news.

“We have been asking for more investment in Otley’s cycling for a long time now and these cycle racks will make choosing your bike the easy choice for travelling into Otley.”

Three stands apiece will be installed at Wharfemeadows Park; in Gay Lane, outside Chevin Cycles; in Kirkgate, outside Kirkgate Arcade; and in Crossgate, near The Dales Cafe.

Another two stands will also go up in the market square.