PETERCHURCH motocross rider Craig Newton has picked up his biggest title to date after carrying off the British AMCA 125 Expert Wessex Group championship.

Craig, aged 21, who has been riding since he was15 when he joined the Hereford Motocross Club, has worked his way up through the junior and senior ranks to the expert section, moving into competitive racing after starting off with enduro riding.

"Motocross is very expensive but Craig has funded it all himself," said dad Tim Newton.

"He doesn't drink or smoke and has put all his money towards the sport. He is very dedicated."

Craig, who has received excellent support from his sponsors and plenty of help and advice from Woolhope open expert rider Paul Rogers, is now aiming to qualify for the British Championship.

He has plenty of competition to keep him on his toes at home, though, with brother Ash another promising rider.

"The two boys go practising together and while they are very competitive with no love lost on the track, they are quick to laugh about it together afterwards," said Tim Newton.

"They also do all their own maintenance on their bikes which I oversee for them."