New statement issued after jockey's death as AP McCoy speaks of his 'heartbreak'

THE BHA has released a new joint statement following the tragic death of jockey Keagan Kirkby.

The 25-year-old amateur rider died on Sunday during a point-to-point race at Charing Racecourse in Kent.

The statement confirmed that medical crews reached Kirkby within 30 seconds of his fall, but that his injuries were “of such a nature that it was not possible to save him.”

It came as legendary rider AP McCoy spoke of his 'heartbreak' at the loss – leaving 14-time champion trainer Paul Nicholls 'mortified'.

Kirkby was a yard worker at Nicholls' Ditcheat stables in Somerset and the trainer posted last night: 'Life is so hard sometimes.'

The new statement from the BHA and Point-to-Point Authority said: “The necessary steps in response to this tragic incident began immediately after the race on Sunday and continued today.

“The BHA is visiting the site and will work with the PPA, the racecourse and the attending medical teams to ensure the incident is fully assessed.

“All relevant agencies will also assist the police and/or the Environmental Health Officer with any questions they wish to ask.

“The medical facilities and teams at Charing Racecourse were fully up to the required standards on Sunday and included two racecourse doctors and three fully equipped ambulances with paramedic crews.

“The medical team attended Mr Kirkby within 30 seconds of his fall. Further support was provided by 999 road and air ambulances.

Despite immediate medical attention, the injuries were such that it was not possible to save Mr Kirkby's life.

“It is important that with any incident like this we do everything we can to understand what caused it and whether we can learn anything from it.

“There is a risk associated with racing that can never be completely eliminated, but we are committed to ensuring we review every incident and use any findings to continually improve our safety record.

“Our thoughts remain with the family of Keagan Kirkby and his many friends and colleagues from the racing industry and beyond.

“The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) is coordinating support for the Kirkby family, its workplaces and any staff or participants at the event.”

A photo of young Kirkby posing for a photo with McCoy was posted online and the former rider wrote in response: “Heartbreaking.”

He had previously said: “Tragic sad news. My thoughts are with Keagan's family, friends and everyone at Ditcheat. RIP Keagan Kirby.”

The racing community as a whole has come together to express their condolences to those who loved and knew Kirkby.

Harry Cobden, Nicholls' number one rider and a Ditcheat regular, said: “A terrible tragedy.

“Keagan loved his job and was an integral part of Team Ditcheat. My thoughts are with all of Keagan's family and friends.”

While Nicholls' daughter and ITV Racing pundit Megan Nicholls said: “I can't really wrap my head around it, but to be one of the many lucky people who knew Keagan is a privilege. RIP Keag.”