Haydock clerk praises public and professionals after emotional meeting

Saturday's evening meeting at Haydock proved a sombre occasion but was conducted in the right spirits, clerk of the course Kirkland Tellwright reported on Sunday.

Following the fatal accident suffered by starting stalls team leader Stephen Yarborough at the track on Friday, it was confirmed only on Saturday morning that the evening's fixture would go ahead, when it was announced the meeting would be dedicated to the memory of the popular 60-year-old.

Tellwright said: "There was a heavy atmosphere and I think all parties in attendance, including the public, were aware of how sombre an occasion it was. Everyone was anxious to strike the right note."

He added: "The thing that struck me most was how the jockeys were so keen to be part of the dedication. They're clearly very close to the stalls handlers, and it showed.

"Those riding in the first race actively wanted to be part of the minute's applause, although unfortunately the way it had all been set out meant that couldn't happen."

Asked about the atmosphere among racegoers, Tellwright said: "From what I could gather, the crowd were well aware of the gravity of the meeting and everything was conducted in the right spirits."

Tellwright indicated that around 7,000 attended the meeting on Saturday, when Culture Club played a concert after racing.

Meanwhile the JustGiving page set up to help support Yarborough's family – he is survived by children Christopher and Sheriden, and two grandchildren – had raised nearly £8,000 by Sunday afternoon.