If it was not already apparent just what the Tour de France coming to Yorkshire means to the British Cycling public, the roars which rang around the Leeds Arena gave a clear indication.

There may be just four Brits on the start line for this year’s race, but it has not dampened the enthusiasm of the locals as they prepare to welcome cycling’s greatest race to the white rose county.

Music, dancing and a packed arena – as well as packed streets outside Leeds Town Hall and Leeds University – ensured the biggest rider presentation in the Tour’s history was a memorable one.

And the wall of noise which greeted Simon Yates (Orica-GreenEDGE), Mark Cavendish (Omega Pharma-Quickstep) and Team Sky’s Chris Froome and Geraint Thomas ensured the British riders were given a suitable welcome to their home Grand Depart.

The elite cast of riders set for the Tour’s start line tomorrow (Saturday July 5) was welcomed in turn, with performances by Embrace and Kimberley Walsh among others interspersed.

As a flavour of what is to come over the weekend, it certainly whet the appetite.

Take a look for yourself in the full-screen gallery of Stefano Sirotti’s images below.