CYCLING Discoveries - five new specially selected cycle routes in North Hampshire - have been officially opened by North Hants MP Sir George Young.
The launch at The Watership Down Inn in Freefolk unveiled the new rides, which range from 12 to 22 miles and come in two special packs.
The first features two scenic rides that follow quiet country lanes and cycle paths while the second pack focuses on three rides for the off-road enthusiast.
Keen cyclist Sir George said: "The pubs and farms in this constituency have taken a hit because of foot and mouth, as have the local tourist attractions. Promoting these cycle routes will do something to bring spending power back to rural areas and I very much welcome this initiative."
John Slater, managing director of Southern Tourist Board, said the project was put together back in 1999 with the aim of developing a series of day and short break cycle tours in North Hampshire. "We intended to open these routes on 1 April but did not succeed, largely because of foot and mouth," he said.
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