Sir Gary Verity has resigned from his role as CEO of Welcome to Yorkshire amid an investigation into his use of expenses.

Verity was a key figure in bringing the Tour de France to the UK and also founded the Tour de Yorkshire.

More than three million people lined the UK routes during the "Grand Départ" of the Tour – stage one and two – in 2014, which saw the race start in Leeds and proceed through the Yorkshire Dales national park to Harrogate.

Following the success of the Tour, Verity was knighted in 2015 and also made a Chevalier of the National Order of Merit by the president of France.

His legacy is, however, now in doubt after concerns were raised in relation to "his behaviour towards staff and his expenses".

In a statement, Welcome to Yorkshire said: "As a responsible organisation Welcome to Yorkshire takes all allegations very seriously.

"The Board has investigated these and concluded that Sir Gary made errors of judgement regarding his expenses at a very difficult time for him and his family.

"Sir Gary has agreed to voluntarily reimburse Welcome to Yorkshire for monies owed."

Commenting on his departure, Verity said: "Over the last ten and a half years I have always tried to set the highest standards of personal performance and leadership.

"Where this has been achieved, I am grateful and when, on occasions, I have fallen short, I apologise. My health is now my main priority. I ask for time and space to heal.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead such an inspirational organisation and work with such a creative and talented team.

“I know that Welcome to Yorkshire will continue to go from strength to strength and achieve many fantastic things over the coming years.”