Phew, what with the Lions’ humiliation of the Aussies and Andy Murray’s historic Wimbledon win – the first Brit champion not wearing long trousers (let’s all punch the air) – it has been a summer to savour. But the tension is not over at the Tour de France until tomorrow.

For enthusiasts of extreme sport, and for that read The Tour De France, there is a great new title out – A Race For Madmen – which sums up the world’s greatest cycle race nicely - written by Chris Sidwells, best selling author, journalist and writer of newspaper and magazine articles on every aspect of cycling and fitness.

The Tour de France is the biggest annual sporting event in the World, literally bringing the game to the spectators as the cyclists – pushing themselves to the limits of endurance – hammer through the French villages, hamlets, cities and towns en route.

Chris’s book traces the development of the race though the years and examines bike technology, rider preparation and tactics. It also profiles the key players, and some of the men who have won - looking closely at their lives and motivation.

Chris Sidwells captures the essence of the uniquely French event – despite a Frenchman not winning the title for 20 years. He analyses the tour’s history and examines how a simple sporting contest has captured the imagination of the World.