As many as 2.5 million people have lined the route of the Tour de France as the annual event gets underway in the UK.

Millions watched the spectacle as the race wend its way through Yorkshire over two stages this weekend, with many more expected to greet the race’s arrival in London today.

The event has proved a success for Visit Yorkshire, which has invested heavily in brining the event to the region in hope of boosting future tourism receipts.

Crowds were dense along the route, illustrating huge public support for the tour.

Sir Rodney Walker, chairman of organisers TdFHUB2014 said: “Around 2.5 million spectators lined the route over two days and revelled in being part of history.

“The passion of the crowds in Yorkshire has really made this a weekend to remember.

“There has been a huge amount of planning and hard work from all the partners involved to ensure the first two stages were a success.

“We have once again showcased how the UK can deliver amazing events and a world-wide audience has seen the best of Yorkshire, and the best of the UK.”

The route passed through Harrogate, Keighley, and Huddersfield before reaching Sheffield.

Today the third stage will take the riders from Cambridge to London, before 18 more stages culminate in the French capital on July 27th.

It is the fourth time the Tour has crossed the English Channel.

In 1974 and 1994 it included stages in Britain and in 2007 London hosted the start, known as the Grand Depart.