July 25, 2017 9.14 am This story is over 80 months old

Lincolnshire-born stalls handler dies in racecourse tragedy

A Lincolnshire-born stalls handler has died following an incident before a race.
Photo: Matthew Lee for Lincolnshire Reporter

A Lincolnshire-born stalls handler has died following an incident before a race at Haydock Park on Merseyside.

Stephen Yarborough died in intensive care after he is believed to have been run over while the stalls were being moved before the fourth race of the card on Friday, July 21.

The 60-year-old was born in the Grimsby area.

A statement from RaceTech read: “Following a tragic accident today our dear friend and colleague Stephen Yarborough sadly passed away following serious injuries incurred in his role of Team Leader of the Starting Stalls at Haydock Park racecourse.”

John Bozza, RaceTech chief executive, said: “Our thoughts are very much with Stephen’s family, close friends and his colleagues at this very sad time.

“Stephen was an experienced and popular member of the team; he will be hugely missed by everyone.

“We are doing all we can to support Stephen’s family and the investigation at this stage.”

Jason Fildes, Haydock Park general manager, said: “This is the worst possible news. I’m very upset for Stephen’s family and friends and there is a now a real sadness among the whole team.

“We saw Stephen regularly in his role working for RaceTech. It’s so tragic that this happened.”