Terry Biddlecombe: Former jockey, husband of Henrietta Knight, dies

Three-time champion jump jockey Terry Biddlecombe, the husband of former trainer Henrietta Knight, has died aged 72 after a lengthy illness.

Biddlecombe helped Knight train triple Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Best Mate.

Eighteen-times champion jump jockey AP McCoy paid tribute.

"Very sad news that former champion jockey and the legend that was Terry Biddlecombe has passed away. Thoughts with 'Hen' and his family. RIP," said McCoy on Twitter.

The news was confirmed on Knight's Facebook page with a notification reading: "Sadly, Terry died peacefully after breakfast this morning with Henrietta by his side."

Biddlecombe, one of jump racing's best-known characters, won the jockeys' title in 1965, 1966 and shared the honours with Bob Davies in 1969.

"After the season finished we went on holiday together and had a great time," recalled Davies.

Biddlecombe won the Gold Cup aboard Woodland Venture in 1967 and went close to winning the Grand National when Gay Trip was second in 1972.

The former alcoholic and ex-school teacher Knight might have seemed like an odd couple, but they achieved great success after marrying in 1995 with horses such as Edredon Bleu, Lord Noelie and Impek.

But they will forever be remembered for their association with Best Mate, who won the Gold Cup in 2002, 2003 and 2004.

Knight quit training in May 2012 to help look after her husband and the horses in her care moved on to Mick Channon, where she still plays an active part in the training of the jumpers.

"Racing lost a true icon today. Others lost a friend, husband and father who made life full of fun. Terry Biddlecombe was a star," said Channon.