Speedway star 'found hanged'

A speedway team has been shocked by the apparent suicide of one its young up-and-coming star riders.

Details are still said to be “sketchy” but it is thought that Swindon Speedway’s recent signing Rafal Kurmanski, 21, was found hanged in a hotel in his home country of Poland.

The rider, described as “a talented youngster” by the club, had only signed three weeks ago, making his debut on May 12 at Poole. He impressed observers in the match and scored points in the latest fixture against Eastbourne last week.

He had said he was happy at Swindon and said in a recent interview with the BBC that he was looking forward to developing a career in England.

Promoter Alun Rossiter said in a statement: “I just cannot believe what has happened, as Rafal was so happy when he departed for home on Friday morning. He had a ready smile and he came across as a really nice lad in the short space of time that I had known him.

“We have already had a number of problems to overcome this season, but this sad news really puts everything into perspective.

“Everyone connected with the club sends their heartfelt condolences to Rafal’s family and friends back home in Poland.”