NORTH Petherton mountain biker Tim Flooks was gearing up for his biggest challenge yet in August 1988.

For the 30-year-old was heading to Swiss Alps to take part in the Mountain Bike World Championships.

Despite strong competition, Tim said he was looking forward to the event after making the transition from motocross to the mountain biking.

"I don't just climb hills for nothing," he said.

"It's the coming down that gives me the buzz."