THE Forestry Commission is launching a new drive to get people off the sofa and into the woods - and Yorkshire's new forest chief is leading the way.

A campaign called Active Woods was unveiled last week, to encourage more people to burn off surplus calories and banish stress by taking to the region's forests.

But for 43-year-old Alan Eves, who has just been appointed forest district manager to oversee 56,000 acres (22,000 hectares) of woodland in North Yorkshire, it's a message that has already sunk in.

Mr Eves moved to the area three years ago with the Forestry Commission and since then has developed a passion for mountain biking.

Now, in his new lead role looking after major forests like Dalby and Cropton, near Pickering, he plans to keep tabs on facilities by hitting the saddle.

"I bike to work from my home in Sinnington and sometimes take the long route to check on trails and get feedback from the public on how we are doing," he said.

"North Yorkshire's woodlands are often referred to as the Forestry Commission's jewel in the crown and keeping it that way is a challenge.

"Going biking creates a space for positive thoughts and keeps me fit and that's what the Active Woods campaign is all about - making people realise there's a fantastic resource on their doorstep to boost mind, body and spirit."

Originally from Colchester, Mr Eves worked for the Forestry Commission in the South-West before moving north.

After training in engineering, he opted for a career change and studied forestry at Bangor University.

Until recently he was responsible for timber harvesting and planting at the commission's Pickering office.

Now he has reached the top of the tree in Yorkshire, one of his key objectives is to see through plans to create 55km of all-weather mountain bike routes in Dalby.

"The scheme is likely to cost £500,000 and detailed plans have already been drawn up in consultation with local enthusiasts," said Mr Eves.

"It's an ambitious project, but the spin-offs in terms of health and tourism make it worthwhile."

Active Woods is being spearheaded by the Forestry Commission, with support from the British Heart Foundation.

Several special events are being staged in North Yorkshire, from wildlife walks to bushcraft events, aimed at keeping people busy in the fresh air. More information is available on www.forestry.gov. uk/active or from 0845 3673787.