Grand National-winning jockey Ryan Mania released from hospital

Grand National-winning jockey Ryan Mania has been released from hospital after an MRI scan on his back and neck revealed just minor injuries.

Mania, 23, who won Saturday's National on 66-1 shot Auroras Encore, fell during a race at Hexham on Sunday.

He spent two nights in hospital but no serious damage has been found and he hopes to return to the saddle soon.

He tweeted: "Delighted to be getting out today. Looking forward to getting home to see friends and family."

Mania fell at the fourth flight of the St John Lee Handicap Hurdle when riding Stagecoach Jasper.

The Scot appeared to suffer a heavy kick between his shoulder blades after his horse fell, and was treated for more than 30 minutes at the track before being airlifted to Newcastle Hospital.

He was conscious as he was put into the air ambulance on a spinal board, but his injuries were initially described as 'severe/serious'.

However, Mania's agent Bruce Jeffrey is hopeful the jockey will make a swift return to racing.

"Ryan had his MRI scan this morning," said Jeffrey. "The scan has shown up a very small fracture in his C7 vertebra and there is also some soft tissue and ligament damage.

"But Ryan feels fine in himself and he is up and walking about perfectly fine. He is hoping to be back in the saddle in the very near future.

"Once again, Ryan and his family would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody for their support, it has been fantastic and he just can't wait to get back riding again."

A homecoming party is being held in his honour in his hometown of Galashiels, Scotland, on Tuesday evening.