McCoy rests after heavy fall brings neck injury

The champion National Hunt jockey, Tony McCoy, was lucky to escape serious injury following a crashing fall from Miners Rest in the Thurlbear Novices' Handicap Chase at Taunton yesterday. McCoy, who had earlier posted a double aboard Ramstar and Indian Jockey, was brought back in an ambulance but was later allowed to leave the course.

"The back of my neck is very sore, I haven't been this sore for a long time," McCoy said afterwards. "I haven't any rides at Hexham tomorrow and I will definitely be back at Chepstow on Saturday. I suppose I should be feeling good as I have ridden a double this afternoon but I am a bit shaken to say the least."

However, the course doctor, Jeremy Budd, commented: "McCoy will have to pass a doctor before he can ride again. He's not concussed in any way but he has a very stiff neck and will be seeing a physio."

Brendan Powell was also in the wars after a fall from Have A Nightcap in the Summerfield Handicap Hurdle and missed his remaining ride.

Timmy Murphy was found guilty of using his whip with unreasonable frequency on the fourth, Sirtelimar, in the same race. The rider, who is based with Kim Bailey, was banned for four days and a day to be notified for remedial training as this was his third offence under the whip and interference rules.