PROMOTER Matt Ford is optimistic injured Pirates star Adam Ellis will make a swift recovery.

Fast-track rider Ellis suffered a broken collarbone after Swindon’s Nick Morris fell directly in front of him during Monday’s 46-44 win at Blunsdon.

But with four weeks before Pirates take to the track again and a positive prognosis from Ellis, Ford is hopeful his lay-off will not result in too many missed meetings.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “It is a nasty injury but Adam is upbeat and having spoken to him, he believes it will only take a few weeks to heal sufficiently to get back on a bike.

“I believe he is spending some time in France and will undergo some treatment while he is there.

“You always miss your own riders and in Adam, we are very fortunate to have a fast-track reserve who has settled in incredibly well.

“With four weeks until our next meeting, we will stay in touch and assess his progress closer to home clash with King’s Lynn.”