We reported recently on the situation over at Aston Hill, closed for some time following the departure of one its original key members, but after much negotiation with the CTC and Forestry Commission, it's been revealed the gates will be officially reopening on 7 April.

It's all thanks to the hard work of the Aston Hill Mountain Bike Club, who have been tirelessly working to reinstate the Hill as one of South East England's premier DH/4X/XC venues.

Club chairman Richard Abbott says: “We have to thank the efforts of many people associated with Aston Hill who have donated much time and effort in reaching this goal. Our thanks must also go out to sponsors and partnering organisations - the CTC and Forestry Commission - that have helped make the re-opening possible”.

“Now the gates are open we are even more reliant on the help of others to ensure Aston Hill maintains its position as a top UK mountain bike facility. This means enrolling the support of all those that value what Aston Hill has to offer. We would once again like to invite anyone who feels they can assist in ensuring the ongoing success of Aston Hill to attend the committee meeting on 7 April”.

Opening times and prices long-term are yet to be confirmed, but for now Aston Hill will be open daily between 7-20 April from 10am - 5pm with a day pass costing £5.00. From then on access will be at weekends only, between the hours of 10am and 5pm.

For more information visit www.rideastonhill.co.uk, to enable you to keep track of future developments. Looking forward, they hope to deliver such information as trail maps, directions, weather forecasts, club news and events.