A TEENAGER is looking forward to a series of off-road motorcycle competitions in stadiums across the country in the New Year.

Fifteen-year-old motor cross champion John Joe Wright, from Consett, County Durham, is taking part in the Arena Cross tour.

It will see the Consett Academy pupil competing in Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, London, Glasgow, Sheffield and Newcastle.

Proud father Anthony Wright, 35, a wagon driver from Annfield Plain, near Stanley, said: “The arena tour is both a competition and entertainment as well.

“He lives for motor cross and it is something we do together every weekend. I am getting to relive my childhood through him.”

John Joe rides a Honda CRF 250 and his riding skills have earned him sponsorship from telecommunications mast engineering firm, Bellcom.

The Sunday before Christmas he won the Lucas Oil Timber X Indoor Enduro Race Series in Buckinghamshire and last year came forth in the British Youth Nationals.

Mr Wright said: “He is a really nice lad and do not get into trouble or do anything wrong.

“I am over the moon for him. I am ecstatic with what he has achieved. He is very talented at what he does. It could lead to a professional career for him.”