Irish jockey Aidan Coleman was among those to pay tribute to Liam Treadwell following the sad death of the Grand National-winning jockey.
Tributes have flowed in for Treadwell - a much-loved figure within the racing community - who has died aged 34.
Cork jockey Coleman tweeted a poignant tribute, saying: "I’ve know Liam Treadwell for 13 years and he was simply one of the kindest most sincere person I’ve ever had the honour of meeting just a huge loss to all of us that had the pleasure of knowing the great man, I’m heartbroken #Treaders "
Treadwell won at Aintree in 2009 on 100/1 shot Mon Mome and rode more than 300 winners in a lengthy and successful career.
In a statement released through the Injured Jockeys Fund, Treadwell’s parents, Mark and Lorraine, and his brother Nathan said: “ We are heartbroken that this has happened.
"We ask kindly that everyone respects our privacy in the coming days so that we can begin to come to terms with our loss.”
TV presenter Clare Balding famously interviewed Treadwell after his Grand National win and also paid a touching tribute to 'the loveliest guy with a great sense of humour'.
She tweeted: "I am desperately sad to hear of the death of Liam Treadwell. My heart goes out to his family and all his friends.
A West Mercia police spokesman said officers were called to an address in Billingsley near Bridgnorth this morning, following the death of a man in his 30s.
They added that the death is currently being treated as unexplained, but it is believed there was no third party involvement.
* Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org. Racing Welfare's support line is also available.
