Chris Walker has undergone a second operation as he bids to recover from injury in time to begin testing for the 2003 World Superbike Championship.

The Nottingham-based HM Plant Ducati racer had been convalescing at home after suffering a broken leg and ankle during a race at Mettet in Belgium last month.

They pinned my ankle and inserted a plate with two screws into my leg Chris Walker

Walker had the second operation on the advice of his doctor and now hopes to be fit to take part in testing in December.

"When I had the crash, the medical team in Belgium suggested that I should have what was a relatively simple operation so that I could travel home in relative comfort," said Walker.

"They pinned my ankle and inserted a plate with two screws into my leg.

"It felt comfortable, but I decided to see my regular doctor for a second opinion when I returned home."

It was then Walker discovered he would need further surgery.

"Unfortunately, the screws had come slightly adrift and he recommended that the best thing to do would be to have a stronger plate fitted.

"That operation has been carried out now and the restriction on my ankle won't be too severe."

Walker is set to join new team-mate James Toseland for initial testing at Valencia in Spain early next month.

The Briton is then due to return to hospital to have one of the screws removed.

He will then begin his personal training regime ahead of pre-season testing and the start of the 2003 championship.