A YOUNG motorbike trials rider returned to his home at North Cowton with a trophy after being invited to take part in his first arena trial.

Gavin Lowther, aged 15, rode in the competition staged by Tyne Valley classic motorcycle club as part of the classic bike show at Corbridge on Sunday.

The Richmond school pupil tackled seven man-made sections twice. His score of 21 placed him third overall, behind 20-year-old Michael Phillipson with one mark lost, and 16-year-old Kirk Vitty, on 19.

Mr Stuart Lowther, Gavin's father, said: "The sections were both spectacular and testing. Gavin has won his last four trials in his class, has renewed confidence and is riding on a bit of a high at the moment."

The youngster followed his father's interest in motorbikes and began riding at the age of 11 on a TY80 bike, progressing to a 125 the following year.

Last month, he and his family travelled to Europe to combine a holiday with some training and competition. Foot-and-mouth restrictions meant no national competitions were held in England this year, so there was no way of ranking riders.

Gavin watched the world round in Andorra before spending four days training in Spain with seven times world champion Mr Jordi Tarres. This was followed by a trip to France to take part in his first youth European championship round, in which he finished 21st.

"Being only 15, he is looking forward to being able to compete in all the youth European trials championship rounds next year and is looking for sponsorship to make his dreams come true," said Mr Lowther.

Gavin, one of the top B class riders in the country, competes this weekend at a major trials competition at Back Cowm quarry, near Rochdale. He also takes part in the YMSA Michelin three-day trial in Derbyshire from August 25.

l To sponsor him, contact the family on 01325 378095