A LEADING training provider in Middlesbrough has been unveiled as the first member of an exclusive club supporting the Tour de Yorkshire’s visit to the town.
Excitement’s already mounting ahead of the big day on Sunday, May 1 when Middlesbrough plays host to the start of Stage 3 of the 2016 event.
Crowds will be lining the route and the town will be centre stage to a global television audience watching some of the world’s finest cyclists in action.
Local businesses and community organisations have wasted no time in getting involved – and all are invited to the next Tour de Yorkshire Roadshow at Acklam Green Centre on Wednesday (March 16).
Among the opportunities created by Middlesbrough Council’s Economic Growth team is the prestigious Enjoy the Ride 100 Club, offering small businesses a chance to support the community activities celebrating the arrival of a world class sporting event, and raise their own profile in the process.
And at the recent Tees Business Show at Middlesbrough College, a competition to land the first 100 Club sponsorship was won by local apprenticeship provider 3aaa (Aspire, Achieve, Advance).
The Ofsted Grade 1 outstanding National Apprenticeship provider – based in Sun Alliance House on Albert Road – delivers Level 3 and 4 Apprenticeships for IT and Digital Marketing and Level 3 in Web & Social Media, at no cost to the employer.
3aaa’s Middlesbrough Academy opened in November 2015 and has already changed the lives of dozens of young people.
Middlesbrough Academy Manager Colin Wilkinson said: “The Tour de Yorkshire was a massive event last year and we are delighted to be sponsoring the Enjoy the Ride festival this year.
“3aaa has a history of using the power of sport to change the lives of young people.
“The 3aaa team is looking forward to watching the Tour and using the power of sport to support young people into apprenticeships in Middlesbrough and Tees Valley.”
Since 3aaa have kicked things off additional 100 club members have been quick to join including Firman Financial Solutions, LED Supply & Fit, Driving Miss Daisy Durham Tees, The Creative Alchemist, Dave Charnley Photography, Publicity Seekers and JD Training Solutions Ltd.
Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “The enthusiasm of local businesses and organisations for the Tour de Yorkshire has been overwhelming, and they will play a key role in making this an event to remember.
“The 100 Club is a great way for smaller businesses to get involved, and I’m delighted to welcome 3aaa on board as the first member.”
Businesses and community organisations are invited to the next Tour de Yorkshire Roadshow at Acklam Green Centre on Wednesday, March 16, from 6pm to 8pm.
Speakers will include David Shields from Welcome to Yorkshire, and representatives from Middlesbrough Council.
- Businesses can sponsor the Enjoy the Ride festival, with a number of packages still available. Contact Debbie_Ingoldsby@middlesbrough.gov.uk for more information.
- For full details of the 2016 Tour de Yorkshire, visit letour.yorkshire.com/ and for regular updates on Middlesbrough’s build-up to the big day, visit middlesbrough.gov.uk and lovemiddlesbrough.com/enjoytheride