Police seek two people over fire that killed jockeys

POLICE in England investigating the death of Galway jockey Jamie Kyne are anxious to trace two people seen on CCTV close to the scene of the fire which claimed the life of the young man and another apprentice rider.

Police in Yorkshire say that four people captured on CCTV near Buckrose Court in Norton have come forward following an appeal.

But now police investigating the fire which claimed the life of the 18-year-old from Kiltrogue, Claregalway, and Jan Wilson, 19, from Scotland, want to speak to a man and a woman seen separately close to the scene of the tragedy.

Detective Superintendent Alan Carey, who is leading the investigation, said they wanted to interview anyone who was near the scene of the incident in the early hours of September 5.

A 37-year-old local man who was arrested in connection with the investigation remains on police bail while the investigation continues.

Meanwhile, hundreds of mourners were told on Saturday at his funeral Mass that Jamie Kyne was destined for greatness.

James Hetherton, a racehorse trainer and owner in England, who had introduced Jamie to one of Britain top trainers, John Quinn just 15 months ago, said that Jamie had created an enormous impression since arriving over there.

Jamie was apprenticed to the Quinn stable at the time of his death.

Mr Hetherton said he had really known Jamie for just 15 months, but was in no doubt that he was born to be a champion.

“He loved Malton – he owned the place and next year the Apprentice Championship was his for the taking. He was an immense credit to himself and his family,” said Mr Hetherton.

He said the traffic in Malton had come to a standstill this week as Jamie’s body was carried to the church by 20 of his colleagues.

The entire racing community and the people of Malton all came to say goodbye.

Mr Hetherton added: “Yes Jamie, you were right. You were a champion – a champion of life.”

Our Lady of Knock Church in Lackagh in Galway was packed to overflowing and hundreds more stood in silence outside.

Prayers were offered at his funeral Mass for Jan Wilson, the 19-year old Scottish apprentice who also died in the fire in Yorkshire.

Fr Seamus Nohilly spoke of the shock and deep sadness felt by everyone in the community at the tragic news of the jockey’s death.

In his homily, retired Parish Priest of Lackagh, Fr John D Flannery said that Jamie was well on his way to achieving his ambition until his life had come to such a tragic end and “a light was snuffed out”.

Afterwards, children from Cregmore National School and the local Turloughmore Hurling Club formed guards of honour as the cortege left the church grounds. A group of children, in racing silks and carrying jockeys’ whips, led the way.