A CAR mechanic is swapping four wheels for two and taking to the wilds of Hamsterley Forest with a challenging, new mountain bike course.

The 5,000-acre ancient woodland, near Bishop Auckland, could soon be setting the pace for bike enthusiasts with its new downhill course.

The course was designed by Craig Hunter, 40, a former car mechanic from Sunderland, and the Hamsterley Mountain Bike Association, who will both work with the Forestry Commission to manage it.

The two-minute run - not suitable for novices - consists of tight turns, troughs and steep terrain.

On Saturday, July 14, the first competition will take place on the course, when the Northern Area Mountain Bike Series calls at Hamsterley, followed by a cross country section on July 15.

Simon Blenkinsop, from the commission, said: "This route has been built for experienced bikers and is a stern test of their skill and athleticism.

"We're inviting bikers to come along this weekend, inspect the course and meet club members and rangers."

The downhill run is located two miles along the forest drive near the Grove car park, and will be open between 10am and 4pm during the open weekend.