With the huge expanse of woodland within Forest Heath's boundaries, it has assumed the proportions of a major outdoor pursuit; few weekends pass without swarms of cyclists pedalling their way among the trees of the Thetford forest - machines can be hired from the busy Forest Centre picnic site - many others bring their own on car mounted racks.

Just as in other sports which involve many people and moving objects, however, it is not without its more hazardous implications. Mass racing starts are not customary; the most usual form being the concept of 'Enduro' type tours, some ranging up to 100 miles, taking in stretches of public highway and occupying the whole day.

 Among many other attractions during the 2000 season, Forest Heath had been asked to support the User services at a large and prestigious International Championship meeting in March, in which close on a thousand competitors were expected to participate.

 In addition a number of weekend club events, some of which attract several hundreds of riders, are a colourful enhancement to the rather monotonous green of forest vegetation. Attractive as these events are, however, these modern multi geared mountain cycles, charging through the trees can achieve considerable speed and in consequence of the rough ground, fallen timber and dense compartments of trees, can become a constant source of concern to the medical attendants, and, consequently, to Raynet.

 Long routes with so many cyclists spread out miles apart, often need twenty or more First Aid and Raynet manned points from which excursions may be made to treat and/or rescue stricken riders. Fortunately serious casualties are rare, but the communications provided by Raynet are indispensable if searches need to be undertaken for missing or injured cyclists.©