Olympic mountain bike track warning by Essex Police

The course uses the area's natural contours as well as some man-made elements

Cyclists have been warned not to use the 2012 Olympic mountain bike course in Essex by police.

Essex Police said the Hadleigh Farm track could be dangerous to members of the public as it has been designed to international competition standards.

Sgt Chris Brammel, of Essex Police, said there would be regular patrols. "We don't want anyone getting injured in the run-up to the Olympics."

No-one has as yet been spotted using the track without permission.

A police spokeswoman said that the warning was prompted by concern that the school holidays were coming up and children might be tempted to use the course.

The timetable for the Olympic event will see the riders tackle the three-mile course on 11 and 12 August next year.

A total of 20,000 spectators will be allowed for each day.

The women's event is scheduled for 1230 and 1430 BST on day one with the men's between 1330 and 1530 BST on day two.