SPEED trials and a Monkey Bike Grand Prix will all feature in a major cycle show planned for Tavistock Pannier Market to boost the sport following the disastrous effects of foot and mouth disease.

The Dartmoor Bike Show is being run by Dartmoor Cycles of Tavistock and Shred Mountain Bike magazine over two days — April 7 and 8. Show organiser Derek Heelis, owner of Dartmoor Cycles, said approximately 5,000 people were expected to turn up to the event, which he said was aimed at 'hitting back at foot and mouth'.

One of the world's top pro-trials riders, Martin Hawse, will be giving a demonstration, and the Trials Elite champion Ben Savage will be attending.

A Junior Monkey Bike Challenge will also feature — monkey bikes being small bikes only 12 inches off the ground — along with a Junior Time Trials Challenge, an Open Speed Trials Event and arena demonstrations in a central show arena. There will be stands and stalls around the outside. 'All the main suppliers of clothing and accessories will be there,' said Mr Heelis.

The speed trials will involve two cyclists at a time jumping over pallets and upturned skips on a head-to-head basis. Mr Heelis said he hoped to create a 'fun-packed' atmosphere which would be ideal for the whole family, but especially for the youth.

To add to the atmosphere, Mr Heelis hopes to have a stage area with music and other features.

'It will be two good, active days for young people,' he said. The event has been organised for the school holidays, and Mr Heelis said it was unusual to have a two-day event in the area. 'I hope it will become an annual event,' he said.

Those taking part — who can enter on the day — will be charged a nominal fee. Entry for spectators will be free, but collections will be taken and all money raised will go to the NSPCC.

It is hoped the event will attract people from Plymouth, and Girlings coaches have offered to provide transport from the city to Tavistock.

Following publicity for the event, Mr Heelis has been contacted by a company which has suggested promoting a new ET film in the summer by pictures of ET riding on a monkey bike!

Anyone wishing to know more or businesses wishing to sponsor the event should contact Mr Heelis on 01822 618178.