James Birkinshaw was taken to hospital for scans on suspected internal injuries as the stand-in skipper became the latest victim of the BRC Brummies’ atrocious misfortune.

He was clipped by Kozza Smith at the start of the last lap of Heat 4 with both riders coming to grief heavily – but although Smith was able to walk away, Birkinshaw required extensive treatment on the track.

The meeting was delayed for over half an hour. Birkinshaw’s crash and injury cast a shadow over the meeting, but there was no argument about King’s Lynn’s win on the night, the Stars being sharper from the gate.

They already held a 13-5 lead at the time of the incident.

Visiting No.1 Kevin Doolan romped to a 15-point maximum, equalling Jason Lyons’ track record in the process.

There was an eye-catching display from youngster Simon Lambert.

For the Brummies, who have been hit by injuries all season, Andre Compton proved a good stand-in for Lyons.

Guest reserve Paul Clews also impressed with another gutsy display.