Kessler has missed the Fen Tigers' last seven meetings

Mildenhall Fen Tigers have been rocked by the sudden departure of captain Robbie Kessler.

The German, who has not ridden since 15 June because of a chest infection, has decided to take a break from racing.

The Premier League bottom club's heat-leader has also had to deal with having his van written off in an accident.

Kessler told the club website: "Losing my van and having to hire one has been expensive and I need to invest in my bikes but just can't afford to."

Team manager Laurence Rogers added: "We hope that this is just a temporary thing and we will see him back in action in a Mildenhall race jacket again - the door is always open to him.

"I am in contact with several riders looking at who we can bring in.

"It has been a miserable season for the faithful Fen Tigers fans and now this. We are doing all we can to bring in new riders as soon as we can but it is no easy task."

On the track things went from bad to worse on Sunday as Mildenhall lost 65-27 at home to Sheffield Tigers.

The Suffolk side has now lost all 17 of their Premier League fixtures.