British Cycling, Yorkshire Forward and the Forestry Commission are working together on an ambitious bid to bring the prestigious event to 8,600-acre Dalby Forest in 2010, 2012 and 2013.

The competition attracts nearly 400 of the world's elite off-road bikers. A successful bid would create significant economic and tourism opportunities for the area and reinforce Dalby's development
as a world class mountain bike destination.

The Forestry Commission is working on plans to create a new 6 km route in Dalby Forest specifically for the event.

Alan Eves, Forest Management Director, explained: "We are working on a comprehensive bid with our partners which will put Dalby on a global stage as a world class sporting venue.

"We have already created stunning new cycling facilities, including 55 kilometres of single track trails and also hosted the final stages of the Yorkshire stage of the Tour of Britain in September.

"We hope to get a final decision on the World Cup bid by next June, so its finger's crossed."

Meanwhile British Cycling's Jonny Clay said: "British Cycling is working hard to bring the best international cycling events to the UK.

Bringing a round of the Mountain Bike World Cup to Yorkshire and Humber over a number of years would be a real boost for the region.

"If these major events can be secured from the UCI, Yorkshire Forward and its partners are committed to a significant development plan to establish Dalby Forest and Yorkshire & Humber more widely as a true cycling destination."

And Yorkshire Forward's Neil Jenkinson, Assistant Director Culture and Major Events, added: "This bid could not only bring a major international mountain bike event to Dalby Forest, but would also create fantastic new facilities for everyone who enjoys cycling in Yorkshire and Humber.

"This would deliver both significant media coverage and economic benefit for the region and would establish Yorkshire & Humber as one of the leading destinations for cycling " The UCI – Union Cycliste Internationale – is the international governing body for cycling and allocates World Cup and World Championship races for major cycling disciplines.

Cross-country mountain bike races are held over a closed circuit of at least 6 km. Races can last from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes.

There are narrow tracks, paths through forests, rocky paths and the riders even have to ford