Road to recovery: George Baker takes next step by regaining driving licence

Former jockey George Baker has taken his latest significant step in recovery from the severe head injuries suffered while racing on the frozen lake at St Moritz last year by regaining his driving licence.

Baker spent eight days in intensive care in Switzerland with bleeding on the brain following the fall almost 17 months ago.

The St Leger-winning rider, who retired from the saddle following the accident, defied the experts with the speed of his recovery and will now be back behind the wheel.

Baker, who has impressed during pundit shifts on Racing UK, said: “It gives me a bit of freedom and a bit more independence. The wife can take the 'taxi' sign off her car now!

"It's a brilliant feeling. Owing to what happened [with the injuries] I've had to have a few assessments from the DVLA before I could get the licence back.

"Things are going well. I'm enjoying my work at Racing UK. It's keeping my eye in and it's nice to be doing something in racing. It's worked out really well."

Baker is producing a book charting his life in the saddle, written in conjunction with journalist Tom Peacock. It is set to be released in the autumn.

The memoir will be published by Racing Post Books.

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