Ladies Invited To Gear Up For Biking

Women are being invited to saddle up and have a go at mountain biking in Hamsterley Forest - County Durham's biggest wood. The exciting off road sport has seen an incredible growth in popularity since it first hit these shores from America in the 1980s. But females have been slower to latch on to the craze. Now the Hamsterley Trailblazers are staging two ladies' mountain biking sessions using nationally acclaimed trails in the 5,000 acre Forestry Commission wood, near Bishop Auckland. Led by experienced coaches, they take place on Sunday 11 and 18 May, meeting at the Wood n Wheels Cycle Hire Centre. Vicky Chilcott, Hamsterley Traiblazers Secretary, explained: "Lots more women are taking up what is a really rewarding pastime. But we are still heavily outnumbered by the men. In reality there are no barriers and biking is for everybody, whatever your ability or gender. These sessions are a perfect introduction and just the ticket for those wanting to polish skills which may be rusty after the winter break." Alex MacLennan, Recreation and Tourism Manager with the Forestry Commission, added: "Hamsterley is now one of England's prime mountain biking venues. But although there are plenty of challenges for adrenalin junkies, many of the routes are perfect for people wanting to sample the breathtaking scenery and keep in good shape." Sessions cost £5 each (free to Trailblazer members) and last four to five hours. Basic mountain biking skills and tips on simple emergency bike repairs are covered. Booking is required by contacting Vicky Chilcott on [email protected]. Bike hire can be arranged through Wood n Wheels on 01388 488222. More details on the Trailblazers can be found at www.hamsterley-trailblazers.co.uk