BORED in his dreary nine-to-five office job, Kayum Hoque decided to take the bull by the horns.

The 30-year-old former photocopier repairman swapped his Whalley Range home for a Canadian range when he moved three years ago.

Hooked

Then on a visit to a rodeo, he tried his hand at one of the toughest sports in the world and was instantly hooked. Now Kayum, who grew up in Longsight, is set to become Britain's first professional bull rider. He will apply for his pro-licence later this year, even though he has already suffered a catalogue of injuries.

Horn

While riding his first 100 bulls, he has broken his ribs, nose, had a horn jabbed in his leg, hooves in places that would bring a tear to the eye, and countless cuts and deep bruises. Kayum said: "They are immensely powerful animals. It's an exhilarating and addictive sport. You're scored if you stay on for more than eight seconds, but you always come off in the end so there are injuries.

'Different'

"The bulls are always different. They're as popular as the riders and are scored as well. I rode one called Chain Head who is well-known. They have their own signature moves. I never even imagined I'd do something like this. It is about as different from my old job and the stress of office life as you can get. But I know I can make a career out of it and I'm going pro as soon as I feel ready."

Gymnastics

Kayum, who worked as a photocopier repairman for seven years after leaving school and later went into sales, began by riding cows before progressing on to bulls. He believes his background in martial arts and gymnastics helps him ride. "You have to stay on top of the shoulders, away from the powerful back legs which will buck you off," he said. "Before you go it is nerve wracking. It's like getting into a race car, but not knowing how it will react. You know you might not walk away afterwards. "

'Focus'

Then when the gate opens it is total focus." One of six children born to a Bangladeshi father and English mother, Kayum is already becoming known on the circuit and is currently competing in the six-weekend Nanton Nite Rodeo. "I stand out because I'm part Bangladeshi and have an English accent.

'Supportive'

"Some people can be a bit funny but generally everyone has been supportive. I live in Alberta and Canada is a fantastic place, with wide blue skies and beautiful countryside. I wear a hat, boots and listen to country music. I might come back to Manchester eventually, but I want to have a career as a bull rider first."

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