JOSH Grajczonek lifted the lid on how Darcy Ward’s friends and colleagues had struggled to fight back tears during his first public appearance since his traumatic accident in Poland.

An emotional Ward, 23, who suffered serious spinal injuries while riding for Zielona Gora in August, bravely battled through his anguish to thank loved ones, allies and the speedway public at his benefit meeting at Poole on Wednesday.

Ward’s heartfelt address moved everyone at Wimborne Road, including the stars of the show at an event which raised more than £48,000 for his ongoing rehabilitation.

Grajczonek told the Daily Echo: “It was the first time Darcy had left hospital properly and it was very emotional when he came out.

“A lot of us choked up but at the same time we had to try to think about the riding. It is not good to see Darcy like that, I just hope we can all keep helping him and that he keeps improving the way he has so far.

“I have been good mates with Darcy since we were 11 or 12 years old so as soon as I found out this meeting was on, I told Matt (Ford, Poole promoter) I would be there, no questions asked.

“We all wanted to come here, put on a good show for the fans and Darcy and do something for our mate.”

Fellow Aussie and Pirates target Brady Kurtz, who lives with Ward at Poole team boss Neil Middleditch’s home, believes Ward has the character to keep fighting.

Kurtz, 18, said: “Darcy is still Darcy. He hasn’t changed one bit and I don’t think he will. He has been a massive influence on me since I moved here a couple of years ago. He was the man when I turned up and I think he still is to everyone in the sport.

“It is definitely one of the hardest things I have had to go through, seeing a close mate go through what he has. It has been tough but he wants us all to carry on and do what he loves so much. It was an awesome night for him and for everyone.”