Sherwood Pines Forest Park is to host an open weekend on July 16-17 to try and attract more women to mountain biking.

An estimated 225,000 cyclists visit the 1,200 hectare park, near Clipstone, Nottinghamshire, each year to use the East Midland’s most extensive network of trails – but a minority are female.

The Forestry Commission has teamed up with CTC, the UK’s national cyclists’ organisation, to offer coaching for all levels on the Saturday July 16. A skills session for more experienced riders will also take place the next day.

“This is a chance to give biking a go under the guidance of the CTC’s top female tutor,” said Ian Jordan, the CTC’s cycling development officer at Sherwood Pines.

“There’ll be expert advice in a friendly atmosphere. Off-road biking in particular is often seen as a male dominated pursuit, but the tide is turning with more women taking part at all levels.  But more needs to be done.”

Becci Mayo, a ranger with the Forestry Commission who leads volunteer trail building sessions in Sherwood Pines, added: “Biking is a terrific way to experience the forest and keep fit – and that’s the same for men and women.

“We recently made a £300,000 investment in forest bike routes so the facilities are fantastic with trails to suit everyone. If more women gave it a go they would realise what they are missing.”

The free open day is based around the forest visitor centre and runs from 10am to 5pm.  Booking is not necessary. For more information contact Ian Jordan on  07917 177151, or e-mail [email protected]. Bike hire is available from Sherwood Pines Cycles.