New Trails at Coed Llandegla

Thousands of people visit the woodlands of Wales every year to tackle the growing network of world-class mountain bike trails. Now, Forestry Commission Wales is helping riders to prepare themselves for the hundreds of miles of trails throughout Wales by providing the funding for a new skills area where they can test their ability before setting off into the woods. The skills area was opened at the UPM Tilhill-owned Coed Llandegla mountain bike centre near Wrexham thanks to a grant from FC Wales's Better Woodlands for Wales scheme. The skills area has four separate sections so that riders of all abilities - from beginner to advanced - can experience the thrills, without the spills. Those new to the sport can learn and practise basic bike techniques, while more experienced riders can tackle the Free Ride area, featuring dirt and built jumps, drops and manmade stunts. The Pump Track teaches riders to maintain and gain speed with the minimum of pedalling and the Dual Slalom pits two riders in a head to head race along berms, jumps and bumps. Dave Liddy, FC Wales Visitor Management adviser, said more and more people were discovering the excitement of mountain biking in the woodlands of Wales. "Last year, more than 410,000 cyclists visited the world-class biking centres in Wales, bringing millions of pounds into the Welsh economy, but we're keen to encourage those new to the sport to learn and practise bike techniques before they set off into the woods," he said. "Welsh woodlands offer fantastic opportunities for recreation and the mountain bike trails demonstrate how large, well-managed forests can provide timber and local jobs for a thriving industry as well as a great day out." In addition to the skills area, FC Wales has also given UPM Tilhill a grant towards an extra 10.5km of new track to provide even more exciting challenges for riders in Llandegla. www.coedllandegla.com