Safety is probably what makes it a family sport. Although specta­tors don’t flock to moto-cross, it is a popular family event. The rug is spread out under the trees, the ham sangas are unwrapped, the thermos hooked out and everyone has a good time.

Mum urges her son on to go even faster in the knowledge that there’s little chance of him being hurt. The mums watching sons chasing that oval leather ball don’t have such pleasant week-ends.