New mountain bike trails unveiled in forest

It is hoped the new trails in Kielder Forest will attract more cycling events

New mountain bike trails have been unveiled in Kielder Forest.

As well as a new route at Deadwater Fell, there will also be upgrades to an existing trail.

Forestry England official Alex MacLennan said the additions cemented the forest's position as one of the UK's "premier mountain biking destinations".

Northumberland tourism bosses said they hoped it would attract new cycling events to the area.

The team unveiled a new 650m (0.4 mile) route, designed specifically for relatively experienced mountain bikers, as well as upgrades to a 565m (0.35 mile) trail for expert riders.

Mr MacLennan said the number of routes with varying levels of difficulty on the site allowed riders "to develop their skills while experiencing the incredible natural beauty of Kielder Forest".

"The sensation of emerging from dense woodland on to ridgelines with epic 360-degree views creates a truly unforgettable mountain biking adventure that we hope will keep cyclists coming back time and again," he said.