Equestrianism: Philco dies at age of 32

David Broome's former mount Philco was put down on Tuesday at the venerable age of 32 after occupying the same stable in the rider's yard near Chepstow for 26 years.

The grey gelding, owned by Lord and Lady Harris, was originally bought from Florida where he had been ridden by Rodney Jenkins. The price was not disclosed, but this American thoroughbred was then rumoured to be the most expensive young show jumper ever to have left the States.

Philco's greatest contribution to British show jumping came in 1978 when Broome rode him to win a team gold medal at the 1978 World Championships in Aachen. Broome had the best British score in the three rounds which decided the team title to share a famous victory with his three team-mates, the late Caroline Bradley, Malcolm Pyrah and Derek Ricketts.

The previous year, Philco had won the King George V Gold Cup, giving Broome the fourth of his six victories in this annual classic. He was also on the silver medal team in the 1977 European Championships.

Philco was given early retirement in 1983 because of heart problems. Since then, "The Arrogant Yank" (as Broome affectionately called his snooty grey partner) has led a cossetted life in Wales where he was turned out in the fields each day.