CYCLISTS are in for an easy ride through "some of Britain's most beautiful woodlands" with the opening of a new route through the Wyre Forest.

The finishing touches are being put to the first section of the five-mile trail, which will be part of Route 45 of the National Cycle Network running from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster.

"People will be able to reach it from the giant national cycling network that will eventually link up the whole of the country," said Forestry Commission spokesman Richard Boles.

"And when people reach our section of the track they'll really come alive."

A custom-built levelling machine courtesy of contractor Sean Brett, from Worcester, is being used to lay down a smooth, hard-wearing surface.