Bicton College principal David Henley is preparing to take part in an epic challenge, taking part in the 70-mile off-road Scott motorcycle challenge.

The Yorkshire farmer’s son will next month attempt the 70-mile Scott off-road motorcycle trial through the Yorkshire Dales.

Mr Henley said he had failed on five previous occasions to tackle the challenge.

Mr Henley said: “The last time I took part was in 2006 - my fifth attempt and I still could not finish.

“After four solid hours of exhausting riding the course marshals caught up with me and sent me home by the main road!”

The Scott – described as the greatest test of man and machine in the world - takes place on October 23 and is known to put fear into the hearts of the most hardened motorcyclists.

Competitors face crossing 70 miles of the most difficult and inaccessible moorland and mountains - over rocky hillsides, through woods, across rivers and up tricky gullies and stream beds.

It is expected 200 riders will take part with most failing to complete the ‘near impossible course’.

Mr Henley said: “I can’t resist a physical challenge and when a friend of mine rang me a few weeks ago to ask if I was entering, I had to agree.

“There is something really exciting about taking part in this event – motorcycle trials are one of the few sports where an amateur like me can ride alongside experts.”