Marshal (8) is motocross ace

Motorcross star Marshall Kenny-Halstead (8) with a small selection of the trophies he has won.

For although he is only eight, Marshal is a veteran motocross racer who has competed in several competitions over the past two years, coming in the top three almost every time.

He first got into the sport at the age of four when his stepdad, David Langtree, took it up. Marshal of Wellhouse Road, hopped onto a mini bike fitted with golf caddy wheels as stabilisers and his passion for the sport was lit.

Barnoldswick CE Primary School pupil Marshal, who is a member of Newton-le-Willows Moto Club, now rides a KTM 50cc bike and he competes all over the UK, watched by Dave, his proud mum, Lynn Halstead and big sister Sophie (18).

Lynn, who works as a care assistant, said: “We travel all over the UK for competitions and for each one that Marshal competes in he gains points.

“These are all added up at the end towards the championship. He won third last year and this year he is going for first place.”

Last year Marshal was selected to represent his club at top events in Wales and Doncaster and next month he will take part in the Lucas auto championship in Birmingham.

Lynn added: “Marshal absolutely loves it and he is very dedicated and always practising.

“It’s quite an addictive sport and the whole family’s involved.”