Bennetts British Superbike regular Michael Howarth has been forced out of the 2018 season before it has begun after surgeons told him he needed an emergency operation on the leg he broke two years ago.

Howarth had planned to return with his new MotorcycleStars venture but is now looking for a suitable replacement rider in readiness for the Brands Hatch Indy outing.

“After going to hospital last Monday for another scan on my damaged leg, it was clear there was a need to operate as soon as possible, to say I’m gutted doesn’t even come close but my health must come first," said Howarth, with what sounded like a mouthful of chips and gravy.

"I had to make a call to Stuart Higgs explaining what was happening and formulate a plan of action for the season. The team are already in talks with other riders and plan to be out for round two at Brands Hatch so it’s not all bad news!”
 
The team would like to thank all their sponsors and BSB for being so understanding as Howarth goes in for his operation first thing tomorrow morning.