A Preston Pirates BMX star has won the Young Achievers – Under 21 category at the GLL Preston Sports Awards.

Leon Parker-Livesey, who turns 16 this month, beat off competitors from a wide age range and a variety of sports.

The awards, organised by UCLan, are now in their 15th year. The latest ceremony in December was hosted by ITV Granada’s Paul Crone.

A keen BMX biker from a young age, Leon has risen through the ranks at Preston Pirates BMX Club, which is based at Fishwick Recreation Ground.

Read more: Revamped BMX track is officially opened in Fishwick

The BMX ace became British Champion in the Male 15 category in 2019. He had qualified to represent Great Britain at the BMX World Championships in Houston, Texas, until the competition was cancelled due to Covid-19.

Following this success, Leon has set his sights on securing a place on Team GB at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Leon, who is from Leyland, is known for being a supportive teammate who mentored younger riders at Preston Pirates before he was invited to train at the National Cycling Centre.

Despite the lack of competition this year, Leon has continued to train both on and off the track to maintain his skills and fitness for future events.

Read more: Cycling charity set up to honour tragic young cyclist rides on

Mark Seaman, former GB BMX Coach, said: “It’s great to see all Leon’s hard work being appreciated. It’s always a pleasure to coach him.”

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What do you think of Leon’s achievements? Let us know in the comments.