DOZENS of chainsaw operators are set to battle it out and show their mettle in Ruthin this weekend.

Coleg Cambria Llysfasi will host the UK Loggers competition and training day on its campus on Saturday, April 6 which will be attended by current world champions who will demonstrate and share their expertise.

The event aims to give qualified chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting and tree felling operators who are new to competition an understanding of UK Loggers' precision chainsaw circuit series, which takes place across the UK and Europe annually.

Coleg Cambria offers a range of agriculture courses, including a diplomas in forestry, countryside and woodland management.

The logging event will be held in partnership with Tilhill Forestry, Euroforest Ltd, Husqvarna, Aspen and MWMAC.

Richard Siddons, UK Loggers spokesperson, said: “Precision competition logging provides a safe competitive environment that allows chain saw users to develop their skills to a high degree of accuracy. The competition drives up standards, ensuring a strong competitive environment in the UK.

“The event at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi is one of a series based on college locations that train forestry and arboriculture.

“The aim of these events is to attract new student competitors, and the goal of all competitors is to represent the UK at the World Logging Championship.”

Mr Siddons said there is also a class for participants under 24 years of age, so it’s not just experienced loggers who will make the team.

Iain Clarke, Head of Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, said it would be a huge honour for the site to give future logging champions the opportunity to pit their skills against the best out there.

“I’m sure it will be a very competitive and interesting event, with loggers from across the UK coming here to North Wales to take part,” said Mr Clarke.

“The skill levels are incredibly high and there is a big opportunity ahead for those who are successful, so we wish everyone the very best of luck on the day.”

The UK Loggers event takes place from 10am to 4pm. Entry costs £5, free for students. Competitors must be aged 16 and over.

For further information, email ukloggers@outlook.com.

For more about Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.