A Shropshire adventure centre is in the middle of a village dispute over which is faster – horse power or pedal power.

Anthony Eddies-Davies, who owns the Old Vicarage Centre in Stottesdon, has just launched a new addition to the business in the shape of Shropshire Hills Cycling.

But it has stirred up something of a competitive edge among villagers who are more used to using horses to tackle the local terrain.

Anthony has signed up cycling champion competitor James Griffiths, also from Stottesdon, to help run the new activity venture which has been unveiled complete with a brand new fleet of mountain bikes.

While discussing the routes they were thinking of using over a drink in the Fighting Cocks village pub, some of the local horse riders overheard, and laid down a challenge to the two bikers.

“The horse riders were confident that horse power would be quicker than the bikes,” said Anthony.

“So there was only one thing for it. A bike versus horse challenge has been set.

“Agreeing on a fair route, with ups and downs, the challenge has now been laid down. It should prove a good way of putting to the test the new holidays that Shrophire Hills Cycling, and Stottesdon’s trekking centre Country Treks, are planning to offer in the future.”

The challenge will take place on May 6.