STOURPORT'S former British schoolboy motorcross champion Chad Yarranton is hoping for his best season yet after stepping up to a new division on a bigger bike.

Yarranton has been competing in the sport for 11 years and will take part in the Adult British Championship and the newly-launched Dep Challenge.

The 17-year-old has stepped up to the MX1 class, upgrading his 250cc four stroke bike for a 250cc two-stroke. He will be involved in about 20 races across the UK in the two series as well as competing locally.

Yarranton admits 2006 will be a big year for him and has set his sights on establishing himself in the top 15 in both championships.

"There will be about 80 competing in the British Championships and that is whittled down for the main event," he said.

"I'd like to make it into the top 15 in that and possibly even the top 10 in the Dep Challenge, although I'm not quite sure what to expect with that being a new series."

Previously, Yarranton has also competed in the British under-21 championships but his progression to the bigger bike prevents him from competing at that level in the coming season.

Yarranton is sponsored by Cradley Kawasaki - Team Green but needs further financial support to cover traveling and competition costs. To help contact him on 07742 866421.

l Up a class: Chad Yarranton has moved up to the MX1 class.