As part of its major project to open up 800 hectares (2000 acres) of forest for healthy outdoor activity, Forestry Commission England has announced the appointment of Evernden Cycles to run the cycle franchise at the new Visitor Centre at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent from spring 2006.

“Evernden Cycles is a long-established and well-respected local family business,” says Bedgebury Manager Mark Clixby.”Few places in the South East of England can offer cyclists and mountain bikers the range of riding experiences that Bedgebury will provide, so we will be working closely with Evernden Cycles to make Bedgebury the best venue for cycling in the south east.”

With funding from Sport England and the Forestry Commission, Bedgebury is installing all-ability family cycle trails and a 10km (6-mile) mountain bike route. These will include a long, single-track, cross-country loop, combining existing and new paths, and a dedicated freeride / bike park area, incorporating built structures and obstacles, designed to challenge a rider's ability and technical skills. Few places in the South East of England can offer cyclists and mountain bikers the range of riding experiences that Bedgebury will provide.

“Bedgebury is a very exciting new venture and a first- class facility for local people, tourists and cyclists visiting the area,” says Tony Evernden, owner of Paddock-Wood based Evernden Cycles. “The bicycle franchise will provide cycle hire, sale and repair for families, disabled riders and mountain bikers – from beginners to the most adventurous. Customers will be able to test ride bikes before they buy.”

As well as the cycle franchise, Bedgebury’s new Visitor Centre will offer catering, education facilities, an office for the Friends of Bedgebury group, a visitor information point, a shower block and a bike wash. Open 365 days a year, and with all-ability access, Bedgebury is the perfect place to walk, cycle, ride or play in a spectacular world of trees. The new centre is at the hub of a network of paths throughout the Pinetum that will enable easy access for all levels of ability.

Alongside these innovations, Bedgebury's National Pinetum plays host to a world-class collection of dramatic conifer trees, and will continue to offer a haven of peace set in beautiful parkland with lakes, streams, rolling hills and wide avenues. Every season has its own particular charm: a fall of snow creates a winter wonderland; carpets of bluebells flank magnificent rhododendrons and azaleas in spring; acres of wild flowers create a cheerful sight in summer; and shrubs and trees mak a vibrant display in autumn, all set against a backdrop of the stunning conifers.

• The Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest are in Park Lane, Goudhurst, Kent. For further information, visit www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury or phone the visitor centre on 01580 211781.

News Media Contacts:

• Peter d’Aguilar, Bedgebury, 01580 211044 x 233;
• Tony Evernden, Evernden Cycles, 01892 832823