ABOUT two million people are expected to line the route of the Tour de France through towns and villages in Kent this Sunday.

The first stage of the world’s biggest annual sporting event is starting at Greenwich and will pass through Dartford, Gravesend, Rochester, Maidstone, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Ashford on its way to the finish line in Canterbury.

Kent Police say the public holds the key to ensuring an incident-free day.

Senior officers have urged everyone watching the race to keep an eye out for any unusual or suspicious behaviour.

They have confirmed security is a major factor following the events in Glasgow and London but added policing numbers had not changed for the race.

A spokesman said: “We would ask everyone attending the Tour to remain vigilant. They are our eyes and ears in the streets and should report anything suspicious.”

Kent Police has received £200,000 from Kent County Council for security and the county council has the power to move cars.

KCC spokesman Phil Scrivener said: “We cannot have cars in the way and they will be removed if necessary."

The county council has issued around 200,000 leaflets and put up 10,000 posters to advertise the race. A publicity caravan will tour the route approximately two hours before the first riders race through.

Mr Scrivener added: “The caravan is a wacky publicity stunt really and will include free giveaways for people on the route.

“All efforts are being made to minimise closures and re-open routes as soon as possible after the Tour has passed.”

The race itself will take roughly 30 minutes to pass.