THE two Lions clubs in the Dean are planning a full on Forest of Dean cycling festival for spring.

Brian Griffiths of the The Lions Clubs of the Forest of Dean says: "It seems to me there is an opportunity in the Forest to have a cycling festival. It would attract people in to come and see what bikes are on offer, see the latest models.

"We'd aim to have workshops on how to set up your bike, ride them and maintain them.

"We're also looking at running a sort of recreational 'sportive'. A trail taking in the best viewpoints and cafes in the Dean and out into the Wye Valley. The idea being to show people all the best places in the area."

The Lions aim to attract in several thousand visitors and a wide range of trade stands for the inaugural festival, possibly at Speech House fields.

The clubs already have support from the CSMA at Whitemead Park, Parkend, Speech House, Forest Holidays and the new owner of Pedalabikeaway at Cannop.

The date for the 6th Forest of Dean MTB Enduro is to be Sunday (September 25) at Pedalabikeaway. Entries online at http://www.fodmbe">www.fodmbe. org.uk