DESPITE many events having been cancelled in Pendle because of the foot and mouth crisis, the South Pennines 'Making Tracks' programme was launched this week.

The cycle rides to discover Pendle's quiet country lanes are still due to go ahead as planned during this month, June and July, and people who take advantage of the free guided cycle ride starting in Nelson will be taken into the heart of some of Britain's upland countryside.

Tom Partridge, the council's countryside access officer, said: "The events that are still running in this brochure provide an excellent way of enjoying the countryside without risking the spread of foot and mouth disease.

"A number of cycling events have been organised here in Pendle. I would recommend a bike ride along our quiet country lanes. It is a fabulous way to enjoy the countryside at any time, but during the current crisis it is one of the few responsible ways left to enjoy our surroundings."

Copies of the Making Tracks brochure are available from libraries, council offices, tourist informations and countryside centres and, due to the on-going restrictions, people have been urged to check the event in advance.