Haydock to race on Saturday in honour of stalls handler's memory

Haydock will race on Saturday evening in honour of the memory of stalls handler Stephen Yarborough, who was tragically killed in an incident involving the stalls at the track on Friday afternoon.

Racing had been abandoned on Friday while police conducted their inquiries and there had been some doubt as to whether racing would take place at the Merseyside track on Saturday.

In a statement released on Saturday morning, the course's general manager Jason Fildes said: "After the tragic loss of Stephen Yarborough we've discussed whether to stage this evening's fixture with his RaceTech colleagues and other parties.

"There is a clear feeling that having abandoned yesterday's card, racing this evening should go ahead and be dedicated to Steve's memory.

"Therefore tonight's fixture will go ahead and we will pay our respects to Steve. We will ask the public to join us in doing so and jockeys have confirmed they will ride wearing black armbands as a mark of respect to Steve's life.

"Again I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Steve's family, his colleagues and all who knew him."

Haydock's six-race card will begin at 5.55 and will be followed by a concert from 80s pop group Culture Club.