While the rest of the landowning world always appears to be doing it’s best to get rid of us, it’s great that Forest Enterprise are welcoming us with open arms. Here’s the latest news from the woodland folk.
New trails and a permanent 25 mile Trailquest course are opening in Cannock Chase this weekend. The course has been set up in woodland near Rugeley, and action will start from 11am at the Birches Valley Forest Centre with some of the country’s top off-road riders on hand to teach you map reading and planning skills. The local Swinnerton Trailblazers bike club and other trade stands will be there too. Entry is free and leaflets, maps and score cards are available at £1, with more information from co-ordinator Jason Maclean on 01889 586 593.
The FE have also released a leaflet guide of the ‘Top ten forest biking routes in Britain’. The routes range from routes for experts like at Coed y Brenin and Thetford to family trails or trailquests in Fort William or the New Forest.
National recreation officer Paddy Harrop said: “There is something for everyone in the top ten”. “Through our Forest Fitness campaign we aim to encourage people to improve their overall fitness and to get out and about and enjoy what the forests have to offer.” “The top ten biking leaflet lists our favourite Forestry Commission trails this year but there a hundreds more to choose from. The main aim is to have fun and get fit into the bargain.”
For a free Forest Fitness information pack which details top ten cycling routes and walks in Britain ring the public enquiries line on 0131 314 6322 or log on to the Forestry Commission’s website.