A THIRD generation motocross rider and motorsport enthusiast has taken over a Minehead business which is a market leader in off-road sports.

Dirtbikexpress, in Mart Road, has been acquired by Tom Radburn, a local entrepreneur and motorsport enthusiast who grew up in the Westcountry.

He previously worked as a supplier to the company and now has taken it over, financed by small business backer Allica Bank.

Mr Radburn said: “Being from the area and growing up around bikes this felt like the perfect way to combine passion with purpose.

“I am committed to keeping the business rooted in Minehead and building on its success as a national leader.

“The area has a vibrant riding scene and we want to help nurture that.

“Our aim is to become the top destination for off-roads enthusiasts.

“Dirtbikexpress is well-established in the world of motocross, mountain-biking, and adventure riding, offering everything from helmets and body protectors to wheel sets and exhaust pipes.

"This is a business with a great reputation and a loyal customer base, both locally and across the UK.

“The company has been a benchmark in the British motocross scene for years and one I have looked up to throughout my career.”

Dirtbikexpress has recently launched a new website and is expanding its product range to include major brands such as Alpinestars and Fox.

Allica Bank relationship manager Tom Hine said: "We are proud to support Tom in acquiring and growing Dirtbikexpress.

"His blend of local roots, technical knowledge, and entrepreneurial drive make him the ideal person to take this business forward.

"Supporting businesses like this - those that create local jobs and support our communities - is exactly why Allica exists.”

Mr Radburn said: “The bank understood where I wanted to take the business and moved quickly to support that.

“It made the whole process much smoother.”