TO celebrate the first anniversary of the Gawton Downhill mountain bike tracks in the Tamar Valley, a new short film has been released showcasing local talent on and off the course.

The tracks, in Maddacleave Woods near Bere Alston, were opened in April last year as part of the Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project, by international free-ride champion Chris Smith, as well as the chairman of Tamar Valley AONB and the mayor of West Devon.

The film features local riders of all ages, track designer Rowan Sorrell, and world-class downhiller Dan Stanbridge.

Ruth Davies from the Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project and talented local film-maker Aaron Bartlett filmed and edited the piece, which brought together Aaron's experience of filming extreme sports and the achievements of the Tamar Valley Mining Heritage Project.

Since its release earlier this month, the film has had more than 8,000 views on the Tamar Valley website and various mountain-biking sites, with positive reviews describing the film as 'inspirational' from both novice and experienced riders.

The three tracks —Super Tavi, Egypt and High Speed Descent, are now managed by the Woodland Riders Downhill Mountain Bike Club, which has more than 350 adrenalin-seeking members, many of whom were personally involved with shaping and managing the tracks.

To see the film, visit http://www.tamarvalley.org.uk">www.tamarvalley.org.uk and click on Downhill MTB Tracks.

Anyone who wants to try the tracks out for themselves must have membership for Woodland Riders, which can be obtained on a daily or annual basis.

For more information or for membership visit or contact Dartmoor Cycles in Tavistock on 01822 618178.