A major volunteer drive has been launched in Powys and across the UK to support the Tour de France when it comes to Britain next year, with thousands of people needed along the Welsh stage of the race.

The nationwide search is aiming to recruit 9,000 volunteers, known as “JOY Makers”, who will be placed along the route of the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift Grand Départs across Wales, England and Scotland.

Applications have now opened, with people able to sign up for any of the six stages. The window runs from until September 1 this year.

Stage three of the 2027 Tour de France will begin in Welshpool on Sunday, July 4, and pass through Powys on its way to Cardiff. The route will take in Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Brecon, heading through Bannau Brycheiniog then through Libanus and into the south.

The Welsh stage will be one of the most demanding of the race - a gruelling route with an explosive finale that will test riders and teams.

Volunteers will be needed along the route to help with crowd management, information points and general event support, as well as helping to create atmosphere for spectators lining the roads.

Anyone aged 16 and over can apply, and no previous experience is required. Training will be provided ahead of the event.

The women’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift will not pass through Wales as part of the 2027 schedule.

British Cycling, which is coordinating the UK volunteer programme, says the scheme is designed to be inclusive, with opportunities for first-time volunteers and underrepresented groups.

Those aged 18 to 25 will also be eligible for a “Readiness to Work” scheme offering training and mentoring alongside the volunteering experience.

Television presenter and broadcaster Radzi Chinyanganya, who helped launch the programme, said: “I’m so excited for everyone to get involved – it will truly be an unforgettable experience. Whoever you are, whatever your age or your background – JOY Makers is open to everyone. If you want to bring joy, we want you.”

Mavis Evans from Flintshire, said: “I volunteered as a crossing point in 2014 when the Tour de France last came to the UK, and it was an incredibly special experience. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about the Tour returning to home soil. If you’re thinking about volunteering, my advice would be to just do it. Events can’t run without volunteers - your help genuinely makes a difference.”

Tracy Power, on behalf of JOY, said; “This is a truly unique volunteering offer and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the buzz of being a part of a history-making event, while meeting new people and celebrating your local community.

“Whether you have volunteered before, are a regular on a bike or are completely new to volunteering and the world of cycling, everyone is welcome as a JOY Maker.”

People can apply to volunteer online from now until September 1 via: www.letourgb.com/volunteer