THE 'sky is the limit' for a young motorcyclist who has just become the British champion of his age-group.

Koby Smith, nine, of the Ribble Valley, has been competing in the Auto Cycle Union (ACU) British Solo Youth Trials Championships since July.

Over three rounds, all of which were won by Koby, the bikers were tested to the maximum by riding over difficult terrains - including rocks and streams - with the aim of losing the fewest penalty points.

Koby's mum, Emma Smith, said: "He first got on a bike when he was four-years-old and started competing a couple of years ago.

"We're so proud of what he's already achieved and becoming medium-wheel class British champion is just amazing."

Koby has not settled for just being crowned the country's best, however, with his sights now set firmly on being world champion.

"The sky really is the limit and he's already said that he wants to be world champion, both now and in the future.

"We certainly think he can get there as he's proved himself at a national level. It's amazing. "

With nerves of steel, Koby beat more than 60 riders from all over the UK to the coveted British championship - holding out in the final round on October 3 in a nerve-wracking finale.

He and his brother, Jacob, both ride motorcycles and they can often be found practicing at Inch Perfect Trials in Clitheroe.

East Lancashire has a good track-record when it comes to producing legendary motorcyclists with Carl Fogarty, from Blackburn, a former Superbikes world champion. Koby will be hoping to emulate 'Foggy' by one day becoming champion of the world himself.