Lloyds Tour of Britain fever has arrived in West Lindsey, with volunteers, businesses and residents across the district decorating high streets, shop fronts and windows ahead of the national cycle race travelling through Lincolnshire on Wednesday 2 September.
In Caistor, a team of ten volunteers has been working with local businesses, residents and community groups to get the town looking its best for race day. They have collected 40 old bikes from the community, which have been cleaned and sprayed in the colours of the Lincolnshire flag by local company Caistor Car and Commercial.
The volunteers are also organising a cycling-themed display competition for local businesses and residents, with a cash prize sponsored by Martin Commercials Ltd.
With more than 40 bikes, Lincolnshire flags, bunting and special decorations, the town will be awash with colour. Shop fronts are adorned with unique window displays, including local upholstery business Harry and the Beagle, which has made Lincolnshire and cycling-themed cushions, and local sweet shop Sweetie Belles, which has created bicycles and a Lincolnshire flag using sweets.
Yulia from YM Bakery has also completed a window display featuring a croissant plush toy.
Jo Kelly, owner of Harry and the Beagle, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing new faces coming into the town and appreciating all the work the volunteers have done.”
Freddy Wells, co-owner of Sweetie Belles, said: “I can’t wait to see the town on the day. It’s going to look amazing with all the decorations up. Something like this doesn’t happen very often, so it’s important to make the most of it.”
Yulia from YM Bakery said: “It is very exciting for Caistor. Lots of people are talking about the bikes and everyone is looking forward to it. I said I will have to make lots of pastry for the day!”
Local farmer Rob Turner has created 12 Roman sculptures in recognition of the town’s Roman roots. They will form a guard of honour to salute the riders as they travel through the town and neighbouring villages.
Rob said: “The volunteers have done a great job and I’m sure the town will come out in numbers to celebrate the occasion.”