AT just 18 years-old Charlie Hatton of Ellwood is ranked first in the UK for downhill mountain biking.

Proud dad Les Hatton says it’s an extra achievement for the teen as he has not had the support and foundations his competitors have received.

He said: “Many of the professionals Charlie races against are part of ‘factory teams’ and have been shown the ropes and had money invested in them where as we have had to push Charlie through.

“I take him to most of his races, which recently have been world cups in Europe. It’s only in the last two years he has received sponsorship to help with kit and travel expenses. But we wouldn’t have had it any other way.”

The art of downhill mountain biking is balance, coordination and being a bit of a dare-devil.

Les added: “Charlie has to balance and stay on his bike over 20ft jumps as he lands on rocks or tree roots. He has broken his arm doing so over the years.

“Charlie has been interested in biking ever since he had stabilisers fitted and, as we live close to woodland, he would always ask to go out. His first competition was when he was aged 11 at Pedal-A-Bike-Away at Cannop. We knew he had a talent when he started winning races, then the British Down Hill Series and is now British champion.

“This season he will be moving up from the junior section to elite. He is currently ranked 11th in the world and sixth in the world championships.”

Charlie added: “I can’t thank my parents enough for their support – I really appreciate it.”