THE Forest's two Lions clubs have announced they're taking on an annual enduro-cycle event and have ambitious plans to expand it.

Forest of Dean Lions and Severn Dean Lions currently run the Forest biggest firework display at Speech House. The enduro-cycle event, in its sixth year, will be a fresh challenge for the combined teams.

Nigel Sampson of the Lions explained: "The Forest of Dean Cycle Club have been running it, but we've been asked to take it on.

"It usually attracts about 300 competitors, around 250 last year. We're planning to expand it, ideally to about 500 entrants."

Mr Sampson says this year's enduro-cycle event will take place around Pedalabikeaway and Sallowvallets, including new trails, on September 25.

He said they'll be competitions for various age groups up from 12 to 16 and for varying experience, from beginners to the most experienced.

"We'll have a separate website, we're looking for entries from outside the Dean, so we'll be putting the message out in mountain bike magazines. Well-known rider, Joolz Dymond, is also willing to do a lot for us and hopefully, everything will be in place by the end of this month."