Redcar bears beat Sheffield Tigers 54-39 on Tuesday

Redcar Bears rider Dan Giffard has returned home following his crash against Sheffield Tigers on Tuesday

Giffard, who will miss the rest of the season, suffered a shattered shoulder blade and broken collarbone and is due to return to hospital in three weeks.

He told the club website: "My bike was totally written off, my kevlars and my Bears race jacket had to be cut off.

"I'd like to thank the supporters for their fantastic support and really appreciate the collection held for me."

He added: "I've been a Bear since the sport came back to Redcar and feel I am Redcar through and through.

"I now have to concentrate on getting fit and well for next season when I want to be a Bear once again and be able to thank all the supporters on track."

The 24-year-old, who broke the same shoulder after a crash in 2007, added: "I don't know where all this bad luck comes from.

"I don't live at number 13, walk under ladders or own a black cat."