'Olympic' BMX track for Bideford

BIDEFORD is set to become one of the first towns in the region to have an 'Olympic compliant' BMX track. Work started this week on redeveloping the Bideford Bombers track at Pollyfield, East-the-Water. After stripping the topsoil and laying in an access

BIDEFORD is set to become one of the first towns in the region to have an "Olympic compliant" BMX track.

Work started this week on redeveloping the Bideford Bombers' track at Pollyfield, East-the-Water.

After stripping the topsoil and laying in an access road, the first 800 tonnes of a planned 10,000 tonnes of subsoil were being brought in this week from the development site of the new Baptist Church being built in Westward Ho!

The project is being undertaken by local councillor and plant hire boss Steve Clarke in consultation with the Bideford Bombers, Torridge District Council and the Environment Agency.

"BMX is a new Olympic sport and now we will, potentially, have the chance for Bideford riders to compete in the games," said Mr Clarke.

"The plan is to create a 400 metres track with corners and jumps that will be capable of accommodating up to 80 riders. The first 800 tonnes of subsoil are going in and I would be pleased to hear from anyone who can help with the provision of the remainder, but this must be in reasonably large volumes."

He is trying to provide this valued community project free of charge through the tip charges, he said.

Anyone who wants to help can contact Mr Clarke on (01237) 476375.