SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Taylor Dodd is one of four motorcross riders from the district who are preparing for a national final this weekend.

The quartet were part of the MCX team which finished second at the Motorcross Federation (MCF) Northern Team Cup at Haverigg in Cumbria.

But it was their individual efforts which saw the four riders qualify for the north versus south final, which will take place at Fatcat Motoparc in Doncaster.

Taylor, from Hexham, secured his place in the northern team with an impressive performance on his automatic bike. His older brother Aaron (10) competed in the 65cc class in Cumbria, but narrowly missed out on a top 20 qualifying spot. In the AMX adult category, local riders John Robson, Scott Murray, and Carl Robson qualified for the final.

They will join Taylor in representing the north of the country against their southern counterparts.

The eagerly-anticipated meeting will see 40 riders in eight race categories race it out for both team and individual honours.

Taylor will compete in the age 6-8 category on his 50cc machine, while seasoned adult riders on 450cc bikes will all take part.

His proud dad Mick said: “Taylor did very well to qualify. He just loves being out on his bike. He would be out there every single day if he could. He’s a fearless lad. It’s sand racing, and the youngsters are using the same course as the adults. Taylor enjoys the different jumps and challenges, and travelling to different venues.”

Taylor, who attends St Mary’s First School in Hexham, and his brother, who is a pupil at St. Joseph’s Middle School in the town, got into motorcross quite by chance.

Mick explained: “A few years ago, we got hold of a quad bike, and it just transpired from there.”

Young competitors must be six years old or above to compete. Mick ensures his two sons are kitted out with the very best in safety equipment, which includes body armour and neck braces.

He added: “It’s a dangerous sport, and everybody involved takes safety very seriously. You have to learn how to ride, but you also have to learn techniques based around keeping yourself and other riders safe.

“Taylor is looking forward to the weekend. He’s done so well to get to the final and we want him to enjoy it.”