POSTIE Will Beveridge is swapping his uniform for a pair of leathers as he makes a bid to become the next world ice speedway champion.

The 27-year-old from St Helen Auckland, County Durham, is preparing to go to the US next month to take on riders from Canada, Australia, South Africa, Sweden, Denmark and the US.

The Royal Mail has given the popular postie three months unpaid leave to pursue his dream of clinching the World Championship title.

He has been a familiar face on the speedway circuit for the past ten years, starting his racing career for the now disbanded Middlesbrough Bears.

Will, who rode for Stoke Potters in the British Premier League last season as well as in the Conference League for Buxton, made a promising ice speedway debut last year.

It will cost about £3,000 for Will to take one bike and other equipment to race in the championship, which begins on Boxing Day.

Will, who lives with wife Andrea in Manor Road, St Helen Auckland, took part in the US event for the first time last year and was awarded Rookie of the Year, finishing fourth. But this year he is determined to finish on top of the world.

The trip will involve gruelling bus journeys from state to state, which was quite an experience for those taking part last year.

He said: "There were no stops except to go to the toilet. There were three buses - one for all the riders and the others had the equipment."

He is now hoping businesses in the region will sponsor his quest for silverware.

"I got a great response from local businesses when I went to America last year. Everybody was really supportive, especially Keenpine.com which is sponsoring me again this year and I would like to thank everyone for their support.

"Also, I would not be able to do this without the support of the Royal Mail who have let me have the time off.''

Anyone who can help him with his quest is asked to contact him on 07713 228300.