BIG BLOW FOR BEARS

REDCAR have been rocked in the build-up to the new season with the news that Danish star Thomas Jorgensen will not be fit to take his place.

Jorgensen requires surgery on the back injury he suffered last summer meaning that at best he faces a delayed start to his 2024 campaign.

It’s an unfortunate case of déjà vu for the Bears, who were also forced to change their plans this time last year when winter signing James Shanes was ruled out.

Co-promoter Jamie Swales said: “We never felt it was a gamble when we signed Thomas despite his injuries. Thomas’s rehabilitation was well ahead of schedule, and he reassured us everything was going well.

“Unfortunately, last week that all changed when he started getting pain in his back, and after a visit to the specialists he was told an operation would now be needed.

“We all wish Thomas well in his recovery and hopefully we see him back on track at some point in 2024, but we now find ourselves once again looking for a replacement with only weeks until the season starts.

“Talks are already underway with several riders, and we hope to be able to announce a signing very soon.”