A Westhoughton cyclist, who took up track racing "as an overweight and balding 38-year-old", is one of the favourites for a world title.

Graham Wilman is "in the form of his life" as he goes for gold tonight in the World Masters track championship at the Manchester Velodrome.

"I started cycling when I was 10 with my dad and racing at 14 but it was not until two years ago that I took up track racing," said the father of two.

"The Velodrome runs taster sessions and I went along and fell in love with the sport. Since then I have been riding three or four times a week."

Wilman, who is in the middle of teacher training, underlined his massive improvement when he picked up a silver medal in the over 40s category at the recent National Masters in his favourite event, the 750 metre time trial.

He warmed up for this week with success in the North West Regional Championship but a bad cold may have hampered his plans.

"It think it will affect my performance but I will be looking to consolidate on my position as fastest in the North West and second fastest in the UK by taking on the best in the world. I am hopeful of a medal," he added.

He is set for a busy week competing not only in the time trial, but also the sprint and three-man Olympic sprint.

Wilman, who is a member of the Yasumitsu-Schlapp cycling club, will be joined in the competition by fellow Westhoughton rider Christine Lockart, who took bronze medal in the NW event in the 30-34 age group.