BIKE-mad Chris Paxton has started a new business with the help of a Darlington college.

The 19-year-old has launched his own company making specialist bicycle frames and components for BMX, trials and stunt machines.

Riders are prepared to pay up to £1,000 for a new frame made of light, strong, hi-tech materials, just to save a few grammes in weight.

"When you go down to the skate park there are people who want to buy the best to improve their bikes," said Chris, of Oxbridge Lane, Stockton.

"They will pay £800 to £1,000 just for an aluminium frame, or £500 for a wheel hub. I have a friend who just spent £50 on new tyres just to save 5g. They really care that much."

Spotting a niche in the market, Chris has set up his own firm - The Unknown Few Bicycle Company - with the help of Darlington College of Technology.

Gary Potts, manager of the college's Advanced Manufacturing Centre, said they had been able to design a course specifically for his needs in how to use computer controlled milling machines and lathes.

"The computer-aided manufacturing course is short, sharp and contains everything he will need to run his business," he said.

"We have also set him up with the right contacts and he will be able to hire our specialist machinery to make them."

Chris and his father David, an engineer and IT manager, are now working on designs for the first batch of bike frames and components in time for a show at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre, from April 25 to 27.