If you’re heading for a spot of riding in Grizedale next month, be warned that the Grizedale Stages Rally is set for Saturday 9 December. Several rights of way will be closed as 100 cars and up to 5,000 spectators descend on the Grizedale Forest and Brougton Moor areas.

All footpaths, bridleways and trails between Coniston Water and the Hawkshead-Satterthwaite Road and two others at Broughton Moor will be out of bounds during the event. The Forestry Commission will also be closing most permitted paths around the rally route.

New, clear signs will be in place explaining path closures and Lake District National Park Authority’s rights of way adviser Charlotte Emmens apologised for any inconvenience.

“We really have no option but to put public safety first,” she said. “It would present a serious risk if people were to carry on using the rights of way when the rally is in progress.”

“There are many other good paths and tracks in the area. Our rangers and voluntary wardens and Grizedale Visitor Centre staff will be able to help those who want to avoid the rally.”

Alternative routes between Coniston and Hawkshead via Tarn Hows and Hawkshead Hill to the north of the B5285 are available and all routes on the eastern side of the Hawkshead to Satterthwaite road will remain open.

Closed paths and tracks will be clearly marked with notices. They will re-open as soon as possible after the event. The Forestry Commission is closing the North Face mountain bike trail – but will be selling Christmas trees at its visitor centre.

For those wanting to watch the rally, spectator car parks will be clearly signposted from the Hawkshead direction. If possible, visitors should avoid using roads in the Nibthwaite area on the day.

More details on the rally route and car parks can be found on www.grizedalestages.co.uk