Tour de Yorkshire spectators reminded to stay safe

Northern Powergrid is reminding spectators planning to attend the Tour de Yorkshire to stay safe around its electricity network while enjoying the cycle race.
Northern Grid urge cyclist to take care in the Tour de Yorkshire, and stay safeNorthern Grid urge cyclist to take care in the Tour de Yorkshire, and stay safe
Northern Grid urge cyclist to take care in the Tour de Yorkshire, and stay safe

Over the last few months the company, which is responsible for running the region’s electricity network, has been checking its infrastructure ahead of the prestigious event and working with the race organisers, local councils and Police to help ensure the Tour de Yorkshire is a huge success.

Rod Gardner, Northern Powergrid’s head of network operations, said: “This is a prestigious event for Yorkshire and we’ve been supporting preparations. We’ve used our experience gained from supporting last year’s Tour de Yorkshire, and the Tour de France in 2014, to work with the race organisers, Police, local authorities, and other agencies to help ensure this year’s event runs safely and smoothly.

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“As part of our preparations we have checked all of our equipment including poles and substations that are close to the route. We have also postponed any planned work in the race areas to prevent disruption to local communities and race routes or those participating in the event.

“Whilst we aren’t expecting any issues during the event, we have robust contingency plans in place and are ready to respond should we experience any issues. By taking this proactive approach, and working in partnership with other key stakeholders, we can help ensure power supplies are protected as this exciting race takes place in our region.”

In addition to Northern Powergrid’s operational preparations the company, whose power network delivers electricity to the doors of more than 3.9 million homes and businesses across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, has sponsored the ‘Tour Makers’ vest for the volunteers who will support the event. It also has 10 employees participating in Sunday’s sportive as ‘Team Powergrid’.

Sir Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “Northern Powergrid has again used its experience to contribute to the planning that takes place behind the scenes for a major event like this. We’re grateful for their continued support and commitment to helping us ensure that Yorkshire is ready to deliver this fantastic sporting event.”

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Northern Powergrid is urging local people who will be spectating to stay clear of electricity poles, pylons and substations. Also, if anyone spots damage to the company’s network they should contact Northern Powergrid immediately on its 24-hour number 0800 375 675.