A GIGANTIC yellow jersey has been placed on the roof of York Minster to celebrate the Tour de France coming to the city.

Those watching the Grand Départ of the Tour de France on the streets of York this weekend will miss out on what is probably the highest Yellow Jersey in Yorkshire – a 15 metre square banner installed 200 feet up on top of the cathedral's central tower.

The Dean of York, the Very Reverend Vivienne Faull, said: “We’ll have the cyclists travelling across the new Piazza by the South Door on Sunday morning, but knowing how many helicopters and aircraft will be filming and broadcasting to the global audience from the skies above the city, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to put a clear Tour De France stamp on top of the Minster."

The Yellow banner which says “Allez, Alleluia!” with the York Minster symbol of crossed keys, will remain on top of the building throughout the weekend, was produced by Harrisons Signs Ltd, based in Clifton, York.

Those visiting York Minster on Saturday evening  for one of the early evening tower tours will be able to see the banner up close. For more information, or to book on a tower tour, please visit www.yorkminster.org

Video: York prepares for the Tour de France