MALVERN-based eight-yearold Joel Stimson has been pushing his way up the rankings in both regional and national BMX competitions.

He finished ninth in his age group at the British Championships at Broadway House Holiday Park, Cheddar, Somerset, out of a field of 46.

Stimson just missed out on the final after he was pushed wide on the first corner.

The talented youngster crept up from 10th to fifth in the Midland Championships after a fierce battle with riders from across the region.

Stimson has also jumped up from 22nd place in 2011 to 13th in the British Series while carving out a fine reputation as a consistent rider.

He is looking to perform better after winter training with his club Redditch Premiers and at Perry Park, Birmingham.

Stimson also rode for Great Britain at the World Championships in May at Birmingham’s NIA which proved a valuable experience.