AUSTRALIA team manager Mark Lemon has praised the “overwhelming’’ support for Swindon Robins number one Darcy Ward following the serious injuries he sustained riding in Poland last weekend.

Ward is now at a private hospital in Dorset after being flown back into Luton Airport on Thursday, with a fund set up to support his rehabilitation already standing at around £2,000 as of yesterday.

The Queenslander suffered serious spinal injuries and was left with no lower body feeling after last Sunday’s incident, with the full extent of his injuries still to be determined.

Lemon told speedwaygp.com: “The support Darcy has received since Sunday has been overwhelming. But if there’s anyone who can kindly donate any amount, big or small, we’d be really grateful.

“Private hospital fees come at quite a cost, but we didn’t want to mess about. The money was secondary. We just wanted the best for Darcy and he has got it.

“As team manager of Australia, I have been speaking with my federation (Motorcycling Australia) and we will do everything possible to assist with Darcy’s rehabilitation. But we don’t know the diagnosis or the extent of the injuries as yet.”

Lemon, also Belle Vue team boss, added: “There is too much uncertainty and too many unknowns. It’s over to the family now to publish any information they feel necessary. We have to respect their privacy because I wouldn’t wish on anybody what they’ve had to go through over the last four days.

“These accidents are your worst nightmare. But I do know the family are happy to be with Darcy.

“There is a lot of uncertainty and I feel sorry for the fans that would like to know more. Everyone is deeply concerned for Darcy’s wellbeing, but at this point in time, we just have to sit back, say a prayer and the family will step forward with information when the time is right.”

Robins skipper Troy Batchelor and Abbey Stadium favourite Peter Kildemand, who won the Danish Grand Prix earlier this month, return to World Championship action at the Polish Grand Prix in Gorzow tonight.

Batchelor is 13th in the overall standings, with Kildemand a point and place ahead of him.

Britain’s Tai Woffinden leads the way with five rounds to go.