Wareham Forest's first official mountain bike race

There will be lots of busy little Beavers on hand to make sure Wareham Forest's first official mountain bike race gets off to a good start. The Forestry Commission and British Cycling have joined forces to stage the event, on Sunday, May 13. They are hoping hundreds of people will compete in the event aimed at promoting the benefits of healthy outdoor exercise and the enjoyment of the sport. Linda Joyce, a leader with the 1st Sandford Beaver Scouts, said: "A party of our youngsters will set off along the 5.5-kilometre course an hour before the main event to get the day's proceedings underway. Some senior 'scouts' will be helping to provide refreshments. The cash they raise will go towards our centenary camp fund.' Recreation ranger, Andrew Norris, said: "It's going to be a great event with the whole community included. There will be some serious mountain bike pedal-pushers involved in the two-hour race. It will be a fabulous spectator event. Afterwards the Wareham Forest cycle trail will be open for everyone to enjoy at their leisure. Once you’ve enjoyed its lovely tracks and superb views it is impossible to imagine not coming back again and again." Mr. Norris said that the event formed part of the Forestry Commission’s national Active Woods Campaign aimed at encouraging people to take healthy exercise outdoors. Joint organiser, Robert Jefferies (British Cycling) said that if this year's race was a success, more would follow. Entry to the race for Scouts and under 16-year-olds is £10 per person. Entry for adults costs £15, if paid in advance, or £20 on the day. Entry forms for the ‘Bournemouth Jubilee Wheelers Mountain Bike Race’ can be downloaded from their website at www.bjw.org.uk. Anyone wanting information about the Wareham Forest mountain bike race should ring 023 8028 3141. Details about other Forestry Commission events this summer can be found on the Forestry Commission website at www.forestry.gov.uk