Leighton Aspell: no encore this time as National legend seeks out new challenge

These are unprecedented times for us all, but even before the coronavirus pandemic changed the way we go about our business Leighton Aspell was already adjusting to a new way of life, having called time on a hugely successful career in the saddle in February.

The heartfelt reception Aspell received after his final ride at his local track Fontwell, and the subsequent tributes from across the sport following his retirement, were indicative of his standing in the weighing room.

Universally liked and revered by his peers, the man from Kildare, who now classes West Sussex as his home turf and rode more than 900 winners, was consistent in his outlook from Plumpton on Monday to Newbury on Saturday.