JOCKEY Lorna Brooke has tragically died aged 37.
The amateur rider suffered an awful fall at Taunton on April 8.
Brooke was airlifted to hospital after she came off horse Orchestrated – trained by her mum Lady Susan Brooke – and had been in an induced coma.
Her death was announced in a statement released by the Injured Jockeys Fund on Monday morning.
The statement read: “It is with deep sadness that we have to share the tragic news that Lorna Brooke passed away yesterday.
“Her family thank everyone for their kindness in the last ten days, particularly the staff at Southmeads Hospital who were so professional.
“They will be having a private funeral and will hold a celebration of Lorna’s life once Covid-19 restrictions allow.”
Racing at Taunton in Somerset was stopped for over an hour while racecourse medics attended Brooke after her fall.
She was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol by helicopter.
She underwent tests for a suspected spinal injury but, due to complications suffered as a result of her fall, was placed in an induced coma on Friday before sadly passing away on Sunday.
Brooke had ridden 17 winners in Britain and Ireland over the course of her career.
Devastated racing fans expressed their shock and sadness upon learning of her death.
SunSport columnist Matt Chapman wrote: “Amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has sadly and tragically passed away. We can only send our deepest sympathy to her friends and family. And remember the sport we love can be so so tough.”
One racing follower posted online: “Absolutely devastating thoughts go out to her family and friends.”
Another wrote: “Awful, awful news about Lorna Brooke. We are perhaps guilty of underestimating the immense danger jockeys/work riders are in every time they go out to ride, both in the mornings and in races.”
A fellow Twitter user said: “What horrible news. Thoughts with all family and friends of Lorna and everyone connected with her in the sport.”
While another wrote: “Devastated to hear that Lorna Brooke has tragically passed away following her fall at Taunton. Sending support to all connected with Lorna. Horrific news.”
More to follow.
