THE North Yorkshire stage of this year’s World Mountain Bike championships has won a top accolade.

The world governing body of cycling, the UCI, has officially named Dalby Forest as the best cross-country round of the competition.

The award, which is voted for by teams, journalists, riders, UCI officials and sponsors, takes into account the overall event, including infrastructure, course quality and local facilities.

The event was staged in April, was a total success. Nearly 12,000 spectators watched the action as 286 riders representing 30 nations strove for glory, with action broadcast on television channels worldwide .

The Forestry Commission’s forest management director, Alan Eves, said: "There was an incredible buzz throughout the World Cup weekend and the anecdotal feedback at the time was fantastic.

"This award is great recognition for the work of everyone involved, from engineers to volunteers.

"We all know that our North Yorks Moors woodlands are very special places. Now a lot more people know that thanks to the World Cup coming to Yorkshire."

British Cycling's sport and membership director Jonny Clay, said: "The Dalby stage was a great success this year and I am delighted it has received the recognition it deserves.

"Thanks must go to everybody involved at British Cycling, a team of people that I am particularly proud to be a part of, and our key partners Welcome to Yorkshire, UK Sport, Forestry Commission England, and Yorkshire Forward for their efforts."

He added: "We are already working extremely hard to build further on this success when the event returns to Dalby Forest in May next year.

"Tickets are due to go on sale in November and we look forward to introducing this fantastic cycling discipline to many more people."