ORGANISERS of a popular festival which was cancelled in a row over land have insisted the event will still go on in an alternative form. The annual Cheddar Challenge was cancelled this year after nearly 20 years when English Nature ruled that the land, a

ORGANISERS of a popular festival which was cancelled in a row over land have insisted the event will still go on in an alternative form. The annual Cheddar Challenge was cancelled this year after nearly 20 years when English Nature ruled that the land, at Broadway House Caravan Park, was scientifically too important to hold the festival on.Hundreds of locals and people from across the country traditionally attend what was one of the biggest events on the Somerset calendar, to watch and take part in the notoriously tough mountain bike races in Cheddar Wood.But organisers Dave and Sue Moore are determined the show will go on and have promised some kind of festival will take place on September 30 and October 1.The mountain bike races through the historic wood will be substituted with rides around the Mendip Hills, and camping and the traditional party-style atmosphere will be retained at the park. A statement on the event's website says: "We have been researching all possible options to ensure mountain biking of some kind continues at Cheddar over this traditional weekend."Following much deliberation and with the strong desire to preserve that unique 'Cheddar vibe' in one shape or another, we will be hosting an end of season mountain bikers' gathering at Broadway House - same time, same place, just different riding."While the final itinerary will be published shortly, riders will be able to spend the weekend at Broadway House, enjoying all the usual facilities and the typical Cheddar atmosphere."The pedalling will involve two free group rides on September 30 and one on October 1."We are expecting a good number of riders so you will be able to progress at your own pace. If you prefer riding alone there will be route maps available."Camping for the weekend at the park in Axbridge Road is £5 per person and tents are free. There is no entry fee for the rides. In the evenings there will be a bar and possibly entertainment.