Jockey Keagan Kirkby dies after fall at horse race in Kent

Trainer Paul Nicholls (left) pictured with Keagan Kirkby (centre) and jockey Harry Cobden

British horseracing authorities will carry out a full review after the death of Keagan Kirkby.

The 25-year-old was riding in the Charing point-to-point on Sunday when his horse veered off course and ran into the side of a jump.

He was treated by on-course and air ambulance teams but pronounced dead at the scene.

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls described him as "one of our best, hardworking lads".

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and Point-to-Point Authority pledged to carry out the review to see if any lessons could be learned.

A joint-statement read: "The necessary steps in response to this tragic incident commenced immediately after the race on Sunday and have continued today.

"The BHA are visiting the site and will work with the PPA, the racecourse and attending medical teams to ensure that the incident is fully reviewed."

It added that medical facilities and teams at Charing on Sunday were "fully compliant" with the required standards.

Mr Kirkby joined Mr Nicholls' stables in the village of Ditcheat, Somerset in 2019 and this year was shortlisted for an industry employees' award.

In a statement, the Injured Jockeys Fund said the horse ran through the wing of a jump during the final race of the event.

A wing is a plastic railing that sits at an angle either side of a jump to guide the horse towards it.

Kent Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious and a report had been prepared for the coroner.

Writing on X, Mr Nicholls, one of the UK's most successful horse trainers, said Mr Kirkby was "passionate about his job and his riding" and would be missed "terribly".

BHA chief executive Julie Harrington said: "The entire racing industry will be in mourning at the loss of someone so young and with such potential."

Ashford Borough Council confirmed to BBC Sport that it was looking into the accident.

"We are saddened to hear of the young man's death and are working with event organisers and the police to investigate this tragic incident," a spokesperson said.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues."