The Innerleithen rider has been on factory teams, funded by businesses, from 2010 to 2013.

And he is currently being supported by Single Track Bikes, who have loaned him a carbon Kona Operator bike, as well as a number of other sponsors.

But Lewis’s ultimate ambition - to perform alongside the fastest racers on the planet - is an expensive one that he simply cannot afford.

The former Peebles High School pupil has now set up a crowdfunding profile, makeachamp.com, where he has already raised £300 towards his target of 4,900.

On his page, Lewis said: “Ever since day one, my mum and dad have supported me as much as they possibly can.

“It has always been a struggle, especially when you’re not earning even a little wage from being on a factory team.

“I feel like I have the best facilities to train at and the best coach and trainer I could have and that makes not having to paying for a trainer etc a lot easier.

“That aside, it’s especially hard seeing my mum and dad paying for new race gear and tyres and tools, race entries and accommodation etc. when I know they really don’t have the money at all.

“I am lucky to have a bike shop giving me a bike to borrow for the season and some great personal sponsors onboard to help me too. My mum and dad are in a lot debt and can only afford for me to race the World Cup round in Fort William-Scotland." He added: “The World Cup series is the pinnacle of the sport and the highest level of competition possible. For myself, it’s really important to get to as many as I can, to give me the opportunity to mix it up with the fastest racers on the planet and to put in my best performances and hopefully catch the eye of a factory team.

“The funds will go towards flights, accommodation, food, race entries, fuel etc which will help me massively and get me that step closer to achieving my goals!”