A FORK-lift truck driver has made BMX history by coming out on top in both the World and European Championships for the sport, in the 40-44 year old age class.

It is the first time a UK rider has clinched both titles in the same year but not the first time Shaun Calvert, 41, of Delmore Road, Ingol, Preston, and a member of Mid Lancs BMX Club, has secured victory at championship level.

As well as being the British champ he is also the reigning national and French indoor champ and trains at Coppull BMX Track, Chorley.

For the European Championships, in the Czech Republic, on July 9, Shaun was determined to collect another crown after beating 40 competitors to the winning post before doing the same again a fortnight later, in Holland.

Shaun who started racing when he was 17, only returned to the sport in 2000 after a break for four years through injury.

"I'm over the moon with winning both championships," he said. "It's a great sport which is growing in popularity."

Although not professionally subsidised, Shaun secured small sponsorships from various organisations including Malloy Solicitors, Preston, who put up £500 for his race kit.

But annually he doles out £2,500 a year to attend championships, with the full backing of wife, Sarah, 25. Now he is hoping for news on a proposed track in Preston as talks with council planners get under way.

"Currently there is no track in Preston," said Shaun. "If the plan is successful, and we get a site, then we'll be able to set up a club for guys and girls to get involved in the sport."

The sport has been recognised at Olympic level and will feature in the 2008 games, in Beijing.

Email s.calvert@ic24.net to find out more about the sport.