Downhill thrills at Falmouth 4X bike track open day: PICTURES

The championship standard cycle track was opened by the mayor Geoffrey Evans, who made the long walk up the hill to the track at Pennance Mill Farm and Caravan Park on the road to Maenporth.

The track finally jumped its final planning hurdle recently, securing its future.

Organised by Carrick Riders, the driving force behind the track, the event had something for the whole family to enjoy with local rock band Shameless playing from 12pm backed up by a hog roast and BBQ.

The event gave riders the chance to try one of the demo bikes that are on hand, or even get some expert advice from qualified instructors. Bike companies and local shops were also on hand to show off the latest kit.

However the main focus of the day was the thrill of hurtling down the track, with bike fans of all ages showing off their skills. While many took it slow and steady, some of the local riders put on quite an aerial show, jumping over eight feet into the air off the switchback humps and banks.

The event was a painful experience for one young rider however, who had to be taken to hospital with a suspected broken arm.

Derek Heelis from Falmouth Cycles said: It was a fantastic event with over 130 riders enjoying a great day out. It bodes very well for the future.We are very proud of it and the credit should go to Carrick Riders, we are all very proud of how much the group has achieved.”

He added a special thanks to landowner Alan Jewell, who had stood behind the project from the start and given it his full support.

As a mark of its quality the track hosted round two of the National 4X series in April this year. It attracted over 120 riders including the national champion and the world champion. In July 2014 the riders have been asked to host the National 4X Championship, the most important date in the 4X calendar, in a move called a huge vote of confidence by Mr Heelis.