BREAKING NEWS: Jockey Lorna Brooke, 37, dies 10 days after horror fall from a horse trained by her mother at Taunton
Amateur jockey Lorna Brooke, 37, has died following a horror fall at Taunton earlier this month.
Brooke, was riding Orchestrated for her mother, Lady Susan Brooke, and fell at the third fence at the Pontispool Equine Sports Centre Handicap Chase.
She was placed into an induced coma with ‘significant’ swelling having developed on her brain but lost her fight to recover on Sunday as she passed away.
A statement released by Brooke’s family said: ‘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 few weeks, 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 restrictions allow.’
She was initially treated on track before being taken to hospital in an air ambulance.
Brooke was classed as being in a ‘serious but stable condition’ last week having been rushed to Southmeads Hospital in Bristol following the dismount at Taunton.
She was said to be ‘awake and alert’ when paramedics reached her and underwent observations and tests for a suspected spinal injury before news over the weekend that she passed away.
The world of racing were left devastated by news that Brooke had passed away from the fall
The world of racing was quick to react to the shocking news.
Jockey Harry Bannister wrote: ‘Devastating to hear about Lorna Brooke, puts everything into perspective.
‘Thoughts go to her family, friends and all who knew her. What a very sad day indeed #RIP’
Trainer Michael Dods added: ‘We are all so sad to hear that amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has died following a fall at Taunton. Puts everything into perspective. Our thoughts are with Lorna’s loved ones.’
Brooke enjoyed great success as a jockey, riding 16 winners during her career, which began in 2001.
Seven of these winners came in the last five seasons – with 183 rides during the five-year period also seeing 10 second place finishes, 21 third places and 19 fourths.
More to follow.
Brooke (pictured in 2015) rode 16 winners during her career as a jockey, which started in 2001