Winston hopes to return next week
The northern-based jockey was released on bail yesterday evening after being interviewed at a police station in York.
Winston, 25, has not been riding recently because of tonsilitis but is keen to return to the saddle as soon a possible.
He contacted Jockeys’ Association chief executive John Blake yesterday, who said: “Robert has a young family and can’t wait to get back riding. He’s not been hiding away. He went to the police station voluntarily. He got in contact with me and we arranged for a local solicitor for him.
“He appreciates that jockeys have been arrested before him and that he’s been asked to go through the same process. He hopes to be supported and continue to earn his living. He has already had lots of messages of support.
“He felt embarrassed about the whole thing, about his reputation and the people he works for.
“He hopes to resume riding early next week as planned.
“He’s got nothing to hide and he is co-operating as appropriate. He was upset and shocked. He was arrested but not charged with anything.”
Irishman Winston was champion apprentice in 1999 and rode over 100 winners for the first time last year. He senjoyed his biggest success to date in September when he partnered Magical Romance to win the Group One Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket.
It takes the number of people questioned in connection with the inquiry to 26, including former champion jockey Kieren Fallon.
Sixteen people, including Fallon, fellow jockeys Fergal Lynch and Darren Williams and trainer Karl Burke, were arrested and later bailed last September.
A further six people were arrested and bailed in October, and in December trainer Alan Berry, jockey Paul Bradley and farrier Steve O’Sullivan were added to the list.
A spokesman for the force said earlier today: “The person arrested was bailed early yesterday evening and is due to report back to the police in early May.
“The other people arrested are due to report back throughout April but, due to logistical reasons, the individual arrested yesterday will not appear until early May.”
