Jockey sues over plane crash that ended career

Ray Cochrane, the former Derby-winning jockey who retired after being injured in a light aircraft crash at Newmarket racecourse two years ago, is suing the estate of the pilot and the racing stables which chartered the plane.

Mr Cochrane was travelling in the aircraft with his fellow jockey Frankie Dettori when it crashed on take-off, killing the pilot, Patrick Mackey, and injuring the two jockeys.

Mr Cochrane, 45, who was forced to retire five months after the crash, has brought the action against the estate of Mr Mackey and Sheikh Mohammed's Godolphin organisation, claiming the pilot was ill-prepared to fly the Seneca III type plane in prevailing crosswinds.

The claim for £50,000 is expected to create divided loyalties for Mr Dettori: Mr Cochrane is both a close friend and his agent, but the Italian-born champion jockey is the most high-profile rider at the Godolphin stables, one of the most influential organisations in racing.

After the crash, on 1 June 2000, Mr Cochrane dragged Mr Dettori from the burning wreckage and tried in vain to save the life of Mr Mackey. He spent seven weeks in hospital was awarded a bravery medal. Mr Cochrane alleges that because of his injuries, specifically problems with his back and vision, he had to retire from racing.

Mr Cochrane's lawyer, Richard Brooks, told The Racing Post that the writ had been lodged at the High Court on 30 May because of a two-year limitation period for claims relating to air crashes. He said his client had no desire to go to court and wanted to settle the matter out of court.

A report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch attached no blame to the pilot and said there was no evidence of mechanical malfunction.

Godolphin said it would "vigorously defend the claim".