The Forestry Cycle Challenge is one of the first outcomes of a new partnership between CTC and Forestry Commission England designed to enhance the health and wellbeing of the nation and to support local tourism by promoting cycling.

And it all kicks off this weekend (Sunday 11 September) at seven sites;  Kielder, Dalby, Sherwood, Moors valley, Haldon, Forest of Dean and Delamere with guided cycle rides, free bike safety checks and cycle training.

The day will mark the launch of CTC’s Forestry Cycle Challenge which is a free, fun competition to encourage people to rediscover cycling in the picturesque surroundings of England’s woodlands over the next three weeks.

Paddy Harrop, Recreation and Public Affairs Manager of the Forestry Commission England, said: “The Forestry Commission is excited about this new partnership with the CTC and I am looking forward to see more activities like CTC’s Forestry Cycle Challenge over the next months which will get people cycling in some of the most beautiful parts of England. The Forestry Commission’s quiet woodland trails are great places to improve your cycling skills away from busy roads and traffic.”

Anyone can head to their local Forestry Commission site for a bike ride during this period and log their trip at www.cyclextra.org.uk to be entered into a prize draw.  You can also set targets for cycle mileage, carbon saved or calories burned as well as logging the cycle trips you’ve made.

And part between Sunday 11 September and Sunday 2 October and you could be in with a chance of winning some amazing prizes.

Ian Richardson, CTC’s Business Development Manager, said: “We know from over 20 cycle challenges we have run over the last couple of years that this tool is effective in getting hundreds more people cycling, and the Forestry Cycle Challenge is only the latest addition to this successful scheme.”

Head over to www.cyclextra.org.uk now.