Forestry England is looking for a new name for the Forest of Dean’s famous Family Cycle Trail – and it’s appealing to Gloucestershire residents for their help.
Seeking a name that better represents the nine-mile circular trail, which is popular with walkers and runners, as well as cyclists, Forestry England has released a shortlist of three options for locals to vote on.
As with the Verderers Trail and the Freeminers Trail, all the potential new names are inspired by the Forest of Dean’s rich history and heritage.
Voters can pick between The Colliers Trail as a nod to the area’s coal mining history, with the trail itself passing by the remains of former coal mines; The Gavellers Trail, a reference to the unique occupation of Deputy Gaveller, who oversees the mining of coal and iron ore in the Forest of Dean; or The Minerals Trail, which reflects the diverse geology of the region.
Taking in the Forest of Dean’s historic railway lines, with access points at Beechenhurst, Mallards Pike and the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre, the Family Cycle Trail is a fantastic way to explore the ancient woodland by wheel or on foot.
And while its surfaced paths and gentle slopes make it super child-friendly, moving away from the term ‘family’ will help to make the trail more inclusive for all riders too – harnessing its wider appeal for adult beginners and commuters.
The survey will close at midnight on Thursday 17 March 2022.
To cast your vote, visit surveymonkey.co.uk/familycycletrail.
