A WAR of words has erupted between East Lancashire's motorcycling legends over who is the best rider.

The row started when reigning World Superbike champion, Burnley-born Neil Hodgson, accused four times WSB champion Carl Fogarty of running scared from Aussie bike legend Mick Doohan.

Fogarty retired after badly injuring his shoulder in 2000 without ever competing in Moto GP, considered by some to be the premier competition in world biking, which is dominated by Doohan.

Fogarty is currently overseeing winter testing with his Foggy Petronas team in preparation for next year's WSB championships.

Hodgson made his comments as he signed a deal to ride for Ducati in Moto GPs next year.

But today Fogarty said Hodgson was not worthy as being 'mentioned in the same breath' as him until he wins more titles.

Hodgson, busy celebrating his 30th birthday today, said he had nothing more to say on the matter. Fogarty, known as 'Foggy' to his legion of fans, said: "He came out with some stupid comments really. To say Carl Fogarty would be scared of anyone on a bike is one of the most ridiculous things I've ever heard.

"It's cowardly really, considering I'm injured and I can't compete again. He should concentrate on developing his own style. He's very, very lucky to have been given the chance he has. It's almost as if it's a parting shot as he leaves Superbikes and moves into Moto GP. But he needs to win at least three more world titles before he can be mentioned in the same breath as me."

He said the last time he saw Hodgson was at Magny-Cours a month ago where the two enjoyed a coffee and a cordial chat.

A spokesman for Neil Hodgson today said: "Neil feels he has said all he has to say on the matter and doesn't want to be drawn into a conflict. He's quite happy to let his riding do the talking."

Fogarty is travelling down to the BBC's studios in London later this week to take part in the show A Question of Sport.

Hodgson is preparing for the GP season and looking forward to the first Christmas with his three-month-old daughter Hollie Jean and wife Kathryn at their home in the Isle of Man.