Abingdon's Paul Loyd is gearing up for his first campaign in the top flight of British mountain bike racing.

The 24-year-old, who represents Didcot Phoenix, finished ninth in the expert class order of merit in last year's National Points Championship.

And the top-ten placing won Lloyd promotion to the elite class for the coming season, which was due to start at Thetford Forest, Norfolk on Sunday, March 30, but has now been postponed because of the foot and mouth outbreak.

"Realistically, I am probably looking at coming in the top 30 at the end of the season," he said. "But I am hoping I might be able to sneak into the top 20."

Anyone interested in sponsoring Lloyd can contact him on 01235 533447.