Death at 67 of northern Flat ace who rode Sea Pigeon

Mark Birch, who was one of the most successful and popular Flat jockeys in the north of his generation died yesterday aged 67.

He is be best remembered for his association with the great Sea Pigeon whom he partnered him to win eight races, including two Chester Cups.

Born at Chadderton near Oldham in 1949, Birch began his racing life as a 15-year-old when, after leaving school, he joined Geoffrey Brooke in Newmarket as an apprentice.