Visitor numbers in Sherwood Pines boosted by pedal power

New cycle trails have dramatically boosted visitor numbers to Sherwood Pines Forest Park, according to new figures from the Forestry Commission. The 1,200 hectare (3,000 acre) beauty spot, near Clipstone, Notts is already the East Midlands biggest public woodland, but now it has notched a 20% growth in day-trippers over the past year, with admissions passing the 375,000 mark. Forest chiefs reckon a massive £400,000 investment in new off road cycle routes spanning all ability levels is the major reason behind the huge increase. The woodland's soaring popularity has prompted the Forestry Commission to launch a UK first visitor scheme in Nottinghamshire to nurture even stronger links between local people and the beauty spot. A new Discovery Pass has been unveiled, guaranteeing all year-round free parking in Sherwood Pines for a flat fee of £35, along with juicy discounts on cycle hire, Christmas trees, Go-Ape hire wire course and forest café. All the proceeds from the scheme will be re-invested back in the woodland. Recreation Manager Chris Bray said: "Top bikers have always rated Sherwood Pines as a great venue, but family routes like the Adventure Trail are attracting a new audience, offering a great day out and a stepping stone for those wanting to improve their skills. It's also giving folk chance to tone up, fight the flab and keep in trim. The Discovery Pass is a way to open the door to even more visitors, whilst offering those already using the forest an even better deal." Sherwood Pines was planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1920s on heathland used to train First World War soldiers how to build trenches. Whilst the wood is still a big timber producer, it is now also a major centre for outdoor recreation. About 60% of visitors are cyclists, but Sherwood remains a prime spot for walkers, so a major revamp of waymarked routes is planned for the spring. Adding his support to the new forest pass scheme, TV botanist David Bellamy said: "The Discovery Pass is a passport to enjoy a relaxing stroll, take a whiz along mountain bike routes, or simply contemplate Mother Nature's beauty and encounter wildlife." Discovery Pass holders will also receive a colourful seasonal e-newsletter given the low-down on up coming events and tips on exploring the every-changing forest. Passes can be purchased from forest district office in Sherwood Pines Forest Park (tel 01623 822447) or by logging onto the website at www.forestry.gov.uk/pass