STALLS HANDLER HORROR

RACING was in shock last night after a stalls handler died as a result of injuries sustained in a freak accident at Haydock yesterday. Stephen Yarborough was admitted to intensive care in Whiston Hospital after being run over by the starting apparatus before the fourth race — but doctors were unable to save his life. “What happened is truly tragic and obviously we would like to send our sincere condolences to Stephen’s family and loved ones,” said Haydock’s clerk of the course Kirkland Tellwright.

“He was run over by the starting stalls and the police have been speaking to witnesses and gathering evidence. Their investigations are continuing.”

While the remainder of yesterday’s meeting was abandoned, this evening’s card at Haydock is set to proceed as originally scheduled.