The Forest of Dean Cycle Centre has introduced a green-graded trail, Old Bob's Trail, designed to bridge the gap between the family-friendly Colliers Trail and the more challenging blue-graded Verderers trail.
This new addition caters to a wide range of cyclists, including those using adaptive bikes, beginners, and families with bike trailers or balance bikes.
The trail's name pays homage to the Forest of Dean's rich industrial heritage: Old Bob's refers to a pumping engine that once operated at Cannop Colliery, situated close to the Cycle Centre. This historical connection aligns with the area's efforts to preserve and showcase its past, as seen in other initiatives like the Hidden Heritage apps that bring the Forest's industrial history to life through then-and-now images.
Construction and Funding: Old Bob's Trail was constructed by contractors On Track and funded through the Forestry England 'Access for All' programme, with additional support from Defra.
Location: The trail begins near the starting point of the blue-graded Verderers trail.
Accessibility: The trail is fully accessible for riders using adaptive bikes, making it an inclusive addition to the Cycle Centre's offerings
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