Former Sporting Life editor and owner-breeder Charles Wilson dies aged 87

Trainer Neil King has remembered owner Charles Wilson, who as editor of The Times sacked Boris Johnson, following his death at the age of 87 on Wednesday.

The Glasgow-born Wilson, who died at a London hospital following complications from blood cancer, was a lauded newspaper executive and had a spell as editor-in-chief of The Sporting Life, while at The Times he fired Johnson for fabricating a quote.

Formerly married to TV presenter Anne Robinson, Wilson bred winning jumpers Delgany Gunner and Delgany Demon, who were sent into training with King.

He was also a member of the Jockey Club and his third wife Rachel, who survives him along with children Emma, Luke and Lily and seven grandchildren, was an amateur rider.

Wilson bred and owned Delgany Demon (right), seen here running at Ascot in the red silksCredit: Edward Whitaker

Speaking on Friday, King said: "He was a very good, straightforward owner, who sent me horses when I trained in Newmarket. I had a lot of respect for him. He and Rachel were always very supportive of me and were very good to me.

"He was a straight talker and Rachel enjoyed coming to ride out the horses, while he'd have some breakfast and then watch them. He was a loyal supporter, down-to-earth man and was great to train for. He'll be sadly missed."

A private family funeral will take place followed by a memorial service at St Bride's Church on Fleet Street, although a date has not been announced.