Musical displays in Wethersfield and Rayne will greet the world’s best cyclists as the Tour de France passes through the district.

In Wethersfield, the riders will be welcomed into the village by a cultural extravaganza including a procession of Indian, African and Brazilian drummers.

There will also be performances from singer Namvula and Braintree-based arts organisation Chakardar.

Indi Sandhu, manager of the Essex Cultural Diversity Project, which has organised the world music event in Wethersfield, said: “The range of music we will have on show reflects the global appeal of the Tour de France.

“On the road there will be riders from as far and wide as Australia and Colombia, while on stage we will have music from Bhangra and Samba, to African drumming."

See this week's Halstead Gazette for the full story.