Horse named to honour Frank’s Law campaign

JFKegs businessman behind gesture

The odds were against it but it finally crossed the finish line.

So it is perhaps fitting that a racehorse is to be named after Frank’s Law and now it could be a winner on the track.

Dundee businessman James (Jimmy) Fyffe said he wanted to make the “small gesture” in response to what he described as the “amazing” campaign.

The Fyffe family has been pursuing an interest in horse ownership since 2004.

Mr Fyffe, who is well known in Dundee for his wholesale alcohol business JF Kegs, owns 12 racehorses which are trained by the likes of Jim Goldie, Keith Dagleish, Lucinda Russell and Gordon Elliott.

“Every year I buy another couple of yearlings to train and they will start running in April or May,” said Mr Fyffe.

“I’ve decided to name one of the colts Frank’s Law. It’s a small gesture to mark what has been an amazing campaign.

“The first time the horse runs I will be inviting the Kopel family to the race.

“Amanda has fought against the odds to get Frank’s Law passed and I hope the horse is just as successful.”

Frank’s Law, backed by The Courier, will come into force by April 2019 and benefit at least 9,000 families.

Amanda Kopel spearheaded the campaign in honour of her late husband, Dundee United legend Frank, who died in 2014 after a battle with dementia.

Mrs Kopel has campaigned relentlessly for free personal care to be extended to those under the age of 65 living with a debilitating illness.

Mrs Kopel said: “What a wonderful thing to do. So many people have shown their support for Frank’s Law but I think this certainly is a first having a horse named after the campaign.

“I know that Frankie would have been delighted at the news. I wish Jim much success with the Frank’s Law horse and I look forward to watching and celebrating a few winning races.”

Mr Fyffe, whose family are all Dundee United supporters, said Mrs Kopel’s late husband was one of his Tannadice heroes.

He recently strengthened his links with the club when JF Kegs extended its United shirt sponsorship until the end of next season.

Mr Fyffe’s first horse was Endless Power whose successes included the John Smith’s Winner’s Tipple Novices Handicap Chase at Aintree in 2008.

James Fyffe.