As the leaves begin to fall and the winds begin to get chillier it can only mean that we are hurtling full pelt into winter. But don’t despair; to bring a warm glow into your cycling fun during those long winter months, those experienced Gorrick folk have joined forces with the Army Cycling Union and along with title sponsor Merida, are putting on a fabulous new winter experience – the Merida Brass Monkeys.

The new event is aimed at everyone, with a choice of 4-hour and 2-hour enduros for a decent workout or a less strenuous 1-hour category. Trophies will be awarded at every round but don’t worry if you’re not a race winner, keep an eye out for fabulous spot. The new format event extends to three dates and locations with the first kicking off on 29 November at Rushmoor Arena, Aldershot.

As with most Gorrick organised events, expect lots of fast, flowing singletrack coupled with toe tingling technical sections along with a smattering of lung burning climbs, just enough to keep those winter blues at bay, all situated in the stunning Hampshire and Surrey countryside.

Timelaps will be on hand to record those all important times, while Joolze Dymond will be on hand lurking in the bushes, mostly likely. Lings/Honda have also joined forces with the team along with Mule Bar, Goodness Shakes, Dirt Worker and Component Creatives to make this the premier enduro series of the south and beyond.

The dates and venues:

Winter Warmer – round 1

29 November
Rushmoor Arena, Aldershot, Hampshire

Christmas Cracker – round 2

28 December 2009
Ash Ranges, Ash, Surrey

New Year Hangover – round 3

31 January 2010
Parkhurst Hill, Tweseldown, Hampshire

Find out more at www.meridabrassmonkeys.com