BTCC driver Jeff Smith set for surgery after Croft qualifying crash

Smith and Luke Davenport were both seriously injured as cars slid off the circuit on oil on the wet track during the 30-minute session.

Motorbase Performance Ford Focus driver Davenport was extracted from his car and was taken to the James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough, as was Eurotech Racing Honda's Smith.

Davenport was placed in a medically induced coma while doctors treated him for multiple chest injuries, lung damage, a broken right leg, a broken pelvis, broken right arm and concussion. He is expected to be woken up today.

Smith was awakened from his medically induced coma on Sunday. He had suffered multiple chest injuries, extensive shoulder injuries and concussion.

Triple Eight Racing MG driver Aron Taylor-Smith suffered a broken leg and concussion in the accident.

Smith's partner Jo Polley said: "Jeff is fine in himself, but a bit groggy with all of the painkillers he is on.

"He has nine broken ribs, and they are operating on his left shoulder today to get rid of some of the fragments of bone that are inside him. His right shoulder has been relocated and is healing.

"There is no damage to his head, neck or spine, which is great news, but he is very swollen and as the swelling subsides, they are finding other things. There is also a suspicion that he has a broken thumb too, but we are waiting for checks on this.

"Jeff tried to walk for the first time yesterday but couldn't quite manage it as he was in too much pain. I think we will probably be in the hospital for at least another week.

"The support from the medical staff has been superb, and we are very grateful. There has been a fantastic reaction on social media too, and I read all the messages to Jeff.

"I think every other single driver on the grid has been in touch as well. We really appreciate the support."