Newman hoping to resume where he left off on return from injury

Former British champion apprentice Lee Newman is set to resume his Australian career this week after more than five months on the sidelines.

Newman has been out of action since suffering damage to his spleen and ribs in a three-horse pile-up at Ascot in Western Australia on April 1.

Newman returns to action on Star Value in a 6f handicap at Belmont in Perth on Wednesday and said: "I won a barrier trial on him the other day, he goes well and won't be far away.

"It's been hard work getting back fit and losing the weight – the training's been brutal – but all the effort has paid off and I feel confident and it's great to be back."

Newman, 35, was back on a British track while he was sidelined as he returned home to Scotland for his sister's wedding at Ayr racecourse.

He also spent time riding out for Jim Goldie and is hoping for a fruitful spring season back in Australia.

Lee Newman, pictured with the now-retired Silver Duke, rode out for Jim Goldie on a recent visit home to ScotlandCredit: Jim Goldie Racing

"I hope I can pick up some good horses and build on the good relationships I've already established," he said. "I was doing really well for some trainers, who gave me a great sense of appreciation."

Newman won the apprentices’ title when with Richard Hannon snr in 2000 and, after quitting due to weight problems two years later, he returned for another successful stint in the saddle in 2010, only to give up his battle with the scales the following year.

He returned to race-riding in Australia this year and has partnered eight winners.

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