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'Everyone in racing knew him and I don’t think anyone ever had a bad word to say about him'
Racing is about much more than big-name owners, trainers and jockeys. Its lifeblood are the staff behind the scenes.
Everyone cherishes unheralded workers who turn up at all hours in all weathers, and do it with a smile.
Which is why there has been such sorrow at the death of the hugely popular ‘Big’ John McPherson at the age of just 54.
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Published on inRacing Lives
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more inRacing Lives
- Steve Jobar: an unassuming talent in the saddle who could turn his hand to anything
- 'What did I tell you, any mug could do this' - how ignoring Sir Mark Prescott brought vindication for Brian Haggas
- 'He loved partying with Lester and the rest' - the life of Derek Morris, lightweight jockey who rode for the Queen
- Shamus Donkin: the popular head lad and 'absolute legend' who was a Malton mainstay for nearly 50 years
- 'Dad's life was always a fight' - how bold, brash Barry Dennis became the face of the betting ring