JACK Thomas has decided to take time out of racing - and Leicester have immediately set about looking for a replacement.
Thomas has been struggling for confidence and has lost his enjoyment for riding at this moment.
Watling JCB Lions boss Stewart Dickson said: "Naturally we are disappointed but we send Jack our very best wishes and thank him for his efforts with us this season. We hope this isn't the last we see of him on track.
"We have already started looking at our options for a replacement and will make an announcement once this has been concluded.
"In the meantime we are now preparing for another big weekend with three meetings in three days and lots of travelling.
"We head to Redcar on Friday in the league before welcoming them back to the Paul Chapman and Sons Arena on Saturday - then it's the long trip south to Eastbourne for what should be a cracking cup tie."
