Mountain bike route work starts

The two new trails are costing £850,000

Work has begun on two long-distance mountain bike routes through a Northumberland forest.

The trails are being constructed through Kielder Water and Forest Park and are costing £850,000.

The shorter, 14 km new trail will have an easier terrain for less experienced riders and the longer 18.7 km route will be more uphill and challenging.

Tourism chiefs hope the new routes, which will boast spectacular views, will attract more visitors to the area.

Alex MacLennan, recreation, communities and tourism manager for the Forestry Commission, said: "We've made massive strides in developing facilities and bike tourism at Kielder Water an Forest Park in the last three years.

"Last autumn we unveiled the Deadwater Trail, which is England's highest single track route and has helped us achieve international recognition.

"This latest investment will provide thrilling new opportunities for bikers of varying abilities, giving unique access to one of Europe's most majestic landscapes."

The forest offers views of the Northumberland and Border fells and the Solway Firth in Cumbria.

Funding for the project has come from the Northumberland Strategic Partnership, from One NorthEast, the European Regional Development Fund, the Forestry Commission, Tynedale Council and the Kielder Partnership.