Spell on the sidelines for Ben Barker after having his appendix removed

Recent Birmingham Brummies recruit Ben Barker is facing a spell off the bike – having undergone emergency surgery following Thursday night’s 50-40 defeat at Sheffield.

The drama came in Heat Six when the Curtis Sport Brummies’ reserve clouted the back straight fence at high speed.

Somehow, the Brit stayed on his machine and rode the remainder of the race out, despite mimicking a bucking bronco for the rest of the opening lap.

Barker did manage to complete one further race later on, which saw him hold off former Birmingham man Justin Sedgmen for third, but after feeling plenty of discomfort later on, Barker then had to have his appendix removed.

Appearing on the Ben Barker Racing Facebook page, a statement said: “Ben is facing a spell off the bike having undergone emergency surgery to remove his appendix.

“He was in some severe discomfort, he pushed through to complete the meeting but knew something wasn’t right.

“He would call 111 once he returned home and was told to go straight to A&E, which he did, and was informed he would need to have his appendix removed.

“He had successful surgery this (Friday) afternoon and is now in recovery.

“He will now be off the bike for a while whilst he recovers and in typical Ben fashion is determined to do everything he can to be back fighting fit ASAP.”

Birmingham are working hard to find a replacement for their trip to Belle Vue on Monday (July 7, 7.30pm).

Words and Image by Birmingham Speedway