Snetterton British Superbikes: Marshall Neill represents SMT Honda

Marshall Neill has been drafted in by the SMT Honda squad to replace the still-injured Adam Jenkinson for this weekend’s British Superbike round at Snetterton, and round six at Mallory Park in a fortnight’s time.

Neill got the nod earlier in the week after Tom Grant, who had stood in for Jenkinson at Oulton Park and Donington, failed to show interest in continuing to fill the vacant spot after round four.

Alec Tague, SMT’s Chief Mechanic, said: Marshall is a quick lad, he proved that last time out by winning the Superstock 1000 race beating the likes of Steve Brogan.

“He really likes it here and he also likes Mallory Park.

“I spoke to Robin Croft (SMT Honda Team Principal) and said we should go for a change and try someone new.”

Jenkinson, who broke both wrists in a crash at the opening race weekend at Thruxton two months ago, is due for a return in a month’s time at the Oulton Park round, and Tague said he’s shown some good development this week.

“Adam has had three lots of physio this week,” said Tague.

“His right hand is now out of the cast and he’s got about 35 per cent movement. His left arm is still in a cast, but Adam is showing great improvement.

“We’ve nearly got the bike fixed from Thruxton that got badly damaged in his crash, but it’s cost us something like £15,000 and that’s put our plans to race prep a 2008 Fireblade for this season back a little bit.”

Neill set the 18th fastest time of the opening free practice session this morning.