A WOOLHOPE teenager has made a staggering breakthrough season in the world of motocross.

James Hanscomb has defied his 13 years by excelling in the sport this year, culminating in an appearance in the MX Master Kids event in France, where he finished seventh in a competition that attracted 25 other nations.

The Bishop of Hereford's Bluecoat School pupil has starred in both the BYMX and BSMA Championships against many riders who are older than him.

And his form has captured the attention of the world's largest tyre manufacturer, Bridgestone, who are sponsoring him in his title for further glory.

James first sat on a bike when he was just three and admits motocross is now his biggest passion, in between his homework.

“My dad got me a little bike when I was three," said James.

"Apparently I started crying at first as I didn’t know what it was, but before I knew it I was hooked.

“I even used to get my hair cut on the bike as I’d refuse to get off it.

“I’ve had a really enjoyable season and I feel I am making good progress in the sport.

"To be recognised by Bridgestone is a huge boost for my confidence and shows that I am performing well out on the track.

“This has been a bit of a breakthrough year for me and I am already looking ahead to 2016.”

James, who is also sponsored by Apex Motocross in Worcester, came to the attention of Bridgestone at a BSMA Clubmans’ Championship event early in the year.

Bridgestone’s sales and training development manager Mark Fereday said: “James is such a mature performer, both on and off the track.

“I could tell what a talent he was from the first time I saw him competing.

"He’s very composed and assured on his bike, but fiercely determined to win, as well.

“Those two traits really bode well for the future and we were only too pleased to be able to kit James out on our 203/204 schoolboy range of tyres as he goes from strength to strength.

“Seeing James out on track with the Bridgestone name over his bike at the top of the field is a lovely sight.

“He’s a little wonderkid.

"He has done us proud so far, and long may it continue.”