People in Essex are being encouraged to take the Tour de France 1km cycle challenge – and the fastest man and woman will win free flights to Paris.

Essex County Council is throwing down the gauntlet to residents to cycle 1km on a static bike, take a photo of their time and distance, and then tweet it to @LeTourEssex.

The competition ends on Monday, June 23.

The five fastest men and five fastest women will be invited to a ‘ride-off’, with the winning man and woman getting flights for two people to the French capital thanks to CityJet.

Councillor Ann Naylor, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: “The Tour de France coming to Essex is going to be a once-in-a-generation event and this competition will really put it in the spotlight.

“This will generate great excitement around the Tour here while also encouraging people to get fit and active.

“I hope as many people as possible will get into the spirit and have a go, whether it be in their gym or at home. Challenge your friends, family and work colleagues to see if they can beat your time.

“The world’s best cyclists can do it in around 1 minute 17 seconds... how fast can you do it?”

Entrants have to be 18 years-old or over to enter and, along with their time and distance, they need to tweet their name and where they are from.

It is hoped this will build momentum and excitement about the Tour in Essex and marks the second ‘stage’ of the lead up to it. A similar challenge was held for ECC employees at County Hall in Chelmsford last month.

The third stage, due to be launched next month, will involve a shorter distance and is aimed at schoolchildren.

There is more information, including full terms and conditions, at Essex’s dedicated Tour de France website, LeTourEssex.com.