SIBLING rivalry is spilling onto the race track as two brothers from Duddon go head-to-head in a bid for championship glory.

Mike and James Edwards lie fourth and fifth respectively at the halfway stage of their debut season together in the ACU Dunlop Motostar 125cc Championship.

When the series comes to Oulton Park on July 7, the pair will be lining up against each other on their home circuit.

James said: 'We've raced at Oulton Park eight or nine times and this should hopefully give us the competitive edge.'

James, 25, recorded his first win of the campaign in the last meeting at Aintree earlier this month to move within touching distance of Mike, 20.

Both brothers accept the dangers which are associated with motor racing but instead of dwelling on the negative aspect of the sport, they are fully focused on next month's race.

The pair race for the BSK racing team - owned by their uncle, Allen Steele of Little Budworth - and neither will ease up in their bid to finish above the other.

James said: 'Maybe if I was a lot further behind him in the standings I might consider it. But as it's so close in the championship, if Mike is in front of me in the race I'll chase him. There's a big rivalry between me and Mike!'

The brothers' uncle Allen, who retired in 2003 after 40 years of racing for the team, is the man who kick-started their motorsport career.

James explained: 'Without him, we definitely wouldn't be riding against each other this year'.

Mike has raced 125cc motorbikes since the age of 14 and enjoys the challenge of competing against his older brothe r.

'I love racing against James,' he said. 'There's always plenty of banter between us.'

James enjoyed a successful four years racing sidecars, becoming British 350 Champion in 2003 and 2004, before joining Mike in 125cc racing.

He said: 'Sidecars are a lot cheaper to race and when I earned enough money I moved to the 125s.'

James hopes to move up to the 250cc ABU Motostar Championship next season, and the brothers are looking for further sponsorship. Anyone interested should contact Mike on 07917 56673 or James on 07971 193403.