CYCLISTS are being asked to take ‘moor care’ when out and about on Dartmoor.

The national park has seen a steady increase in the popularity of cycling on and off road.

It reflects the interest in events such as the Tour of Britain, which saw thousands of people line the route across Dartmoor last year and returns again to Haytor this September.

Rob Steemson, head ranger of Dartmoor National Park, said: ‘It is essential cyclists make themselves aware of where they can and can’t cycle off road on the moor.

‘On the commons of Dartmoor and Countryside Rights of way (CROW) Act designated land you can only cycle on bridleways and marked permitted routes.

‘It is important our cultural heritage, wildlife and fragile moorland environments are not damaged.’

The national park has worked with cycling groups and farmers to produce a simple set of guidelines in a leaflet.

A map showing legal off-road routes, as well as free leaflets containing suggested opportunities and copies of the cycling code, are available from visitor centres in Princetown, Postbridge and Haytor – or visit www.dartmoor.gov.uk