People's champ

He has just become the first northern rider to claim the title in almost 100 years. And he has done it against all the odds with grit and determination throughout a gruelling season.

To clinch the crown he has ridden in almost 1,000 races, driven 45,000 miles and even flown to various meetings.

He confounded the doubters who said it could not be done because he lives at Sheriff Hutton, too far north of most of the action, and because as a freelance he has not got the backing of a major stable.

In true Yorkshire character he said he was spurred on by the interest and support of ordinary people.

Now that's a real people's champion.