Enjoy Uttlesford's stunning countryside … by carving a path along Cutlers' Way!

That's the name of the latest cycling publication and recommended route from Uttlesford District Council's Tourism Section. Its aim is to invite visitors and local residents alike to go out and about to discover Uttlesford's lovely countryside for themselves. Setting out from Stansted Mountfitchet, the Cycling Discovery Map includes a figure of eight route and weaves its way through some of the most picturesque villages to the east and south-east of the district, via  Thaxted, Elsenham, Tilty Debden and Widdington to mention but a few.

'Cutlers' Way' is one of a series of Cycling Discovery Maps published by the East of England Tourist Board, and is complemented by another Discovery Map 'Flint and Forge' which also sets out at Stansted Mountfitchet and covers many villages in the east side of the  East Hertfordfshire District.

Both start at Stansted Mountfitchet, with the intention of encouraging visitors to travel by train before cycling the routes

The publications are the outcome of a partnership between Uttlesford and East Hertfordshire District Councils along with the County Councils of Essex and Hertfordshire.

The official launch will take place at the Lord Butler Leisure and Fitness Centre on Thursday 26 October at 11am when there will be a photocall opportunity for all the partners involved and copies of the maps will be available for distribution free of charge.  They will then be available for purchase from the Tourist Information Centre in Saffron Walden and the Community Information Centres in Great Dunmow and Thaxted price £1.50. 

Cyclists and cycling enthusiasts are very welcome to attend the launch, bring their bicycles and get a free copy of the maps.

Hot on the wheels of this will be a cycle ride event organised by the Uttlesford Healthy Eating and Life Style programme (H.E.L.P.)  on Sunday 29 October at 11am, setting out from the Mountfitchet Romeera Leisure Centre in Stansted Mountfitchet.  It will follow the route of the Cycle Discovery map until Widdington before heading back to Stansted and is open to all, with families especially welcome.

Recently a Department of Health report on obesity found Uttlesford has a very high number of healthy and fit people, with Saffron Walden topping the "slimmest town" chart for the whole of the country.  It is hoped these two Cycle Discovery Maps will keep them on track to help make all even healthier, fitter – and more active!