Jockeys pay tribute to stalls attendant

Jockeys across Britain have sported black armbands and paid tribute to barrier stalls attendants after the death of Stephen Yarborough in an accident at Haydock.

Yarborough was in his role as team leader on Friday when the incident happened before the fourth race.

Veteran rider Franny Norton said the attendants were the unsung heroes of racing.

“Those guys put their lives on the line for us every day,” Norton said.

“They are without doubt the unsung heroes of our game. They never get enough credit.

“It’s very sad. I’ve needed their help on numerous occasions and they dive in to help without a thought for themselves.

“You know you are in safe hands with them and it’s tragic this has happened.

“You can only send your condolences.”

After calling off the remainder of Friday’s racing, officials made the decision to hold Saturday’s evening meeting at Haydock as planned.

“After the tragic loss of Stephen Yarborough, we’ve discussed whether to stage this evening’s fixture with his RaceTech colleagues and other parties,” general manager Jason Fildes said in a statement:

“There is a clear feeling that having abandoned yesterday’s card, racing this evening should go ahead and be dedicated to Steve’s memory.”

Merseyside Police said an investigation into the circumstances of the death would be carried out by detectives and the Health and Safety Executive.