Wheels in motion for trail to help everyone explore forest

The Forestry Commission has announced a new £140,000 plan to create a 3km all-ability trail through Dalby Forest, near Pickering.

The 3,440-hectare (8,600-acre) North York Moors beauty spot is visited by 400,000 people every year with forest chiefs estimating that about 10 per cent have mobility or other special needs.

Now talks are under way to secure the backing of funding bodies, with a public exhibition being held at the Dalby Forest Courtyard this Sunday between 11am and 2pm.

Petra Young, from the Forestry Commission, said: “We’ve organised this event to encourage public support for the project and also to get people’s feedback on the plans.

“There will be chance to try special bikes adapted for people with disabilities, along with crafts, activities and games.

“Dalby is a great forest, but we want to make it a more accessible place for everyone.”

Dalby has become a global centre for mountain biking, hosting the UCI World Cup Cross Country Championship for the past two years.

But local groups have asked for more routes to be built suited to those with mobility issues.