Community organisations across West Cumbria are being encouraged to get involved in the excitement of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women 2026, with grant funding now available to support cycling-related activities and community engagement projects.
Cumberland Council is making funding available to help local organisations create activities that encourage participation, promote cycling and celebrate the arrival of one of the UK's most prestigious sporting events.
On Wednesday 19 August 2026, Cumberland will host the opening stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women. Cockermouth will welcome both the start and finish of stage one, with riders travelling through communities including Frizington, Whitehaven, Lowca, Workington, Flimby, Maryport, Allonby, Silloth, Wigton, Caldbeck and Aspatria before returning to the market town.
The 2026 race will be the longest in the event's history, covering almost 650 kilometres across five stages and bringing national attention to Cumberland and the wider region.
Grants of £500 - £5,000 are available through the Council to support community organisations (VCSEs) across West Cumbria to deliver engagement and participation activities that support the event and the local community.
Projects focusing on the following area will be considered favourably:
- Encourage the inclusion of women and girls.
- Encourage groups to engage in supporting the event through animating and decorating the route.
- Encourage increase engagement in cycling and the Tour of Britain even.t
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
"The Tour of Britain Women is an exciting opportunity for Cumberland and the communities along the route. We want local organisations to play a key role in creating activities that bring people together, encourage more people to get active and help communities feel part of this major sporting event. I would encourage eligible organisations to apply and help us create a lasting impact from the race."
Applications are open now and will be considered on a rolling basis, with decisions made within one week of submission. The deadline for applications is Friday 24 July 2026, although Cumberland Council reserves the right to close the fund earlier if all available funding is allocated before that date.
Organisations wishing to apply can request an application form by emailing [email protected] Completed applications, along with any required supporting documents, must be submitted by 24 July 2026.
Projects supported through the fund must be completed by 30 October 2026. Successful applicants will be required to submit a final report outlining project outcomes, achievements and expenditure.
More information on the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women 2026 event and route is available at www.britishcycling.org.uk/tourofbritain/women/route