Wheely good way to see Chase

A new tricycle will be taking to the hills of Cannock Chase after more than £2,000 was raised by cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts in Staffordshire.

The three wheeled, all terrain bike will allow riders with special needs to experience the forest on a bicycle for the first time.

It has a range of special features for safe and easy manoeuvring, which allows visitors of all abilities to try out the new bike on many miles of cycle trails.

The money was raised by cyclists visiting Cannock Chase, who donated second hand biking kit for beginners to purchase. And Swinnerton Cycles, based in Cannock Forest near Rugeley, organised a 50km sponsored bike ride involving hundreds of riders.

Jack Swinnerton of Swinnerton Cycles, said: "We aim to offer everyone the opportunity to cycle in Cannock Forest with the specially designed all-ability trike. It will give people the chance to experience the forest and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings, as well as giving them a sense of achievement and independence."

Swinnerton Cycles is the starting point for cycle routes on Cannock Chase, including the Follow the Dog Technical route sponsored by bike legend Gary Fisher.

The experts on hand can provide information, tuition for all abilities, tips on service and maintenance, hire facilities, bike washes and more.

Jason Maclean, environment manager at Cannock Chase Council, said: "In the past, people with a variety of special needs have missed out, but this fantastic new all-ability trike will change all that. Many people who have never experienced the Chase on a bike before will now get their chance.

"In particular people who may have problems balancing, people with visual impairments and people with certain mobility issues can now experience the wonders of the forests as never before."

The Forestry Commission is running its own campaign called Active Woods to encourage people to make the most of the opportunities that forests provide for healthy activity.

There are a range of routes on offer to suit both sports and leisure cyclists.

Cycling maps for Cannock Chase are on sale from Birches Valley Forest Cafe, office reception and at Swinnerton Forest Cycles Centre, which are all based at Birches Valley Forest Centre.

For more information about the Forestry Commission and its activities, log on to forestry.gov.uk/activewoods