A FOREST on the North York Moors could become a key training venue for the 2012 London Olympics following the completion of England's most extensive network of mountain bike trails.

The 34 miles of purpose-built and sustainable routes have been created at a cost of £405,000 in the 8,600-acre Dalby Forest, near Pickering, and were officially opened yesterday.

It is hoped that the all-weather network could become part of the training facilities for mountain biking events at the Olympics.

The Forestry Commission, which owns the area, is working with the Games organisers to identify suitable sites, which include Dalby.

The commission has created the network with the help of Singletraction, an independent local riders' organisation, and £141,000 from the European Union's Objective Two programme. It has taken two years to complete.

The network is the final element in the £4.1m Dalby Project, which was launched in 2004. Last month, saw the opening of a £2.6m eco-friendly visitor centre and before that, a £1.1m courtyard area was developed featuring bike hire centre, cafe, workshops, offices and community room.

Designed in the shape of a clover leaf, the routes allow riders to tackle the network in four sections, giving maximum flexibility to users. A fifth section will be built, subject to funding.

Fast undulating sections are mixed with long straight single tracks, complete with twists and turns.

One of the chief designers, Adrian Carter, said: "We have shied away from building the type of trails you will find elsewhere in the UK.

"We wanted to offer a different riding experience with trails appropriate to local soils and topo-graphy. By using the natural contours of the terrain, we've created a natural flow to the ride."

Forest district manager Alan Eves said: "Scotland and Wales have created major off-road trails in recent years, reaping rich rewards in terms of luring visitors and stimulating the economy.

"Here in Dalby, we have gone a step further and created a truly distinctive experience for riders of varying abilities."

The Forestry Commission is inviting sponsors to back the trails, giving businesses a chance to promote themselves to more than 300,000 visitors annually. For more information, contact Mr Eves on 01751-472771.