28 September 2009

Mineral Tramway gets off to Olympic Start

Over Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September around 2,000 people headed for Elm Farm Cycle Centre near Portreath to celebrate the official opening of the Mineral Tramways Cycle Trails Heritage Project.
The project has added 15 miles to the existing 20 miles of multi-purpose trails, which include the Coast to Coast trail and the Great Flat Lode trail.  The Great Flat Lode trail travels through the Pool area in the same area as major regeneration initiatives such as Cornwall Council's Heartlands Project.
Most of the trails closely follow the old tram routes used to transport ore and supplies between the area's mines and ports.
Special guest at Elm Farm was Wendy Houvenaghel, Olympic and world cycling silver medallist, who cut the ribbon and performed the opening ceremony.
She said: "The trails will provide a fantastic off-road alternative for individuals and families who enjoy cycling, horse riding, walking and running, while having the opportunity to appreciate the mining history associated with the trails."

The Saturday also saw a 'smoking chimney's' event, where chimneys in the area were made to smoke, evoking memories of the mining era, and there was free entry to the King Edward Mine Museum.