A BUDDING racing star's hopes of becoming the next Carl Fogarty are back on track thanks to his dogged determination and some much welcomed help.

Daniel Crosby, of Blackburn, (pictured, right) had the brakes put on his fledgling career when race officials deemed his 125cc motorbike too big for their events.

The shattered 12-year-old was forced out of action until he could raise money to buy a smaller 80cc Cagliva Prima dream-machine -- a mini version of the one used by his East Lancashire idol Carl Fogarty.

The Witton Park High School pupil sold off his most prized possessions including his PlayStation, TV and his 125cc motorbike. He even completed a 44-mile sponsored walk, cheered on by mum Marjorie, dad Andy and younger brother Lee. He raised an impressive £2,600 but it still wasn't enough for the £3,500 bike. Then in stepped Rockets Aprilia motorbike shop.

Manager of the Livesey Branch Road shop, based at the Livesery Service Station, Stewart Holden said: "Daniel's dad Andy has been coming in here for years and Daniel is a good lad. We thought it was a good cause and he has a great future ahead of him." Last weekend Daniel, a member of the Preston and District Motorcycling Club, took part in his first race on his new bike in Wigan.