Track cyclist Wendy Houvenaghel opens trails

Olympic and World Silver Medallist in the Women's 3000m Individual Pursuit and double World Champion in the Women's 3000m Team Pursuit in Track Cycling, Wendy Houvenaghel officially opened the Mineral Tramways Heritage Project in Cornwall at the weekend.

The project adds 25km to the existing 31km of multi activity trails and links in with existing routes such as the Coast to Coast and the Great Flat Lode Trails.

The £6million regeneration project to develop a network of multi use trails and restore and conserve historic mine structures in central Cornwall is managed by Cornwall Council and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, South West Regional Development Agency, Objective One, Cornwall Council, and Parish and Town Councils in the project area.

Wendy said: "The Grand Launch of the Mineral Tramways Network of Trails is an excellent initiative by Cornwall Council which will allow the beautiful Cornish countryside to be explored by those who are interested in the outdoors.

"The trails will provide a fantastic off road alternative for individuals and families who enjoy cycling, horse riding, walking and running whilst having the opportunity to appreciate the mining history associated with the Trails. It was great to be involved in the formal opening of the Trails and to take part in Saturday's action packed event.”

The day of celebration had a variety of different activities at each of the three main hubs - Elm Farm Coast to Coast Cycle Hire, King Edward Mine, Troon and Bike Chain Bissoe Bike Hire - and included guided cycle rides.

Cornwall Council cabinet member for health and well being Neil Burden said: “Whether you are a walker, cyclist or horse-rider, the expanded network will offer a wealth of opportunities to exercise both mind and body. Being mainly traffic-free, the network will offer improved and safer access to schools, places of work, local facilities, historic settlements and visitor attractions.”