A SEA of red, white and blue will greet Tour of Britain cyclists as they ride into Holmes Chapel.

Yarn bombers have been busy decorating the village to celebrate the country's biggest cycle ride returning to East Cheshire.

Volunteers have been knitting like mad to cover 16 lampposts and signposts on most of the streets.

The 18-strong team of women has even festooned a bike in red, white and blue pompoms to mark the event.

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Anita Armitt and Naomi Sumpter set up the Holmes Chapel Community Yarn Bombers group several years ago.

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Anita Armitt and Naomi Sumpter 

"Ladies have been knitting non stop," said Anita, who has four grown up children and two grandchildren.

"They supply all the wool themselves. Naomi is the most creative person I know, she is absolutely brilliant.

"We are all very proud of the village and wanted to create something welcoming as the cyclists come through.

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Lampposts throughout the village have been decorated

"We want to say 'We're behind you' and offer them our support."

The knitters took time out from their Queen's platinum jubilee project to adorn the village in patriotic colours.

"We are planning a massive yarn bomb for the Queen's platinum jubilee in June next year," said Anita, who has lived in the village for more than 50 years.

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Signposts have been adorned in red, white and blue

"We started two months ago. It is going to be different but we are keeping it all under wraps as we don't want to spoil the element of surprise."

The team is appealing for more volunteers to help.

"We are always looking for more ladies to join," said Anita. "We haven't got any men at the moment. Anybody can knit, it's just a question of picking up a knitting needle.

"We welcome all levels of knitters. People enjoy being part of a group, it gives them something to focus on."

Any knitters wishing to join the ladies as they prepare the big royal celebration can call Anita Armitt on 07795 416299 or email anitaarmitt@hotmail.co.uk