STRICKEN Pirates talisman Chris Holder received a timely boost yesterday when doctors declared him fit enough to be transferred down to a hospital in Poole.

Speedway world champion and Wimborne Road captain Holder, 25, has been in University Hospital Coventry since his horror smash at Brandon Stadium last Friday.

However, after successful surgery on his fractured and dislocated left hip, the Aussie ace was given the all-clear to return to Dorset where he can be closer to his family home in Bearwood.

And Pirates boss Matt Ford added that the club are optimistic Holder will not require further surgery on the shattered heel and broken shoulder suffered in the sickening spill at Coventry.

Ford told the Daily Echo: “It is great news that he’s coming back and I’m sure it will be of great comfort to Chris to continue his recovery here where it is easier for his young son, his partner and his friends to see him.

“From what we’ve heard, we’re hopeful that there will be no operation on the heel and that the shoulder should heal by itself, and while Chris’ recovery will be a long haul, I understand he is in good spirits.

“He has been in the best place, but it will be good to have him back on the doorstep and hopefully he’ll be out of hospital in the next couple weeks.

“At the moment, Chris’ immediate thoughts are about staying over here and getting himself fit and healthy ready for next season.”

Meanwhile, Ford confirmed there was no news to report on Pirates’ quest to fill Holder’s place in the team yet following the season-ending injury.