Deaf boy wins motocross award

Josh is an "inspiration" to other youngsters

A deaf youngster from Gloucestershire has won a coveted award for junior motocross.

'Deaf Defying' Josh Waterman, as he is known, will be presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award by pop band Liberty X on Thursday.

But the 11-year-old's father, Phil Waterman, hopes the organisers find an alternative prize to the norm - CD vouchers.

Riders use the sound of the engine to judge when to change gear, but Josh judges by the feel of the engine.

Cartoon book

He has become one of the top junior riders in the UK, having ridden motocross since the age of six.

Mr Waterman said he was over the moon.

"Josh has never allowed his deafness to hold him back. I'm very proud of him."

Not content with motocross racing, Josh also has a cartoon book of his exploits on sale in local bookshops.

The Motor Cycle Industry Association, which picked the winner, said Josh was an "inspiration".