Sad death of George Ennor

George Ennor, one of the most popular and honourable supporters of horseracing, died today after a long struggle with illness. He was 65.

Chief reporter at the Sporting Life for more than two decades, Ennor then spent a further 12 years at the Racing Post from its foundation in 1986 before working for Racenews.

President of the Horserace Writers & Photographers Association for 20 years, he presented an annual prize for special achievements at the Association’s Derby awards.

At the start of December, he appeared at the 2005 awards where despite his obvious physical frailties, he still managed to make a brief speech filled with his characteristic wit and delivery.

A man unashamed by his lifelong love affair with Portsmouth FC, Ennor had time and a kind word for anyone.

A regular attendee at his local jumps tracks, Fontwell and Plumpton, often working as a freelance reporter, his absence will be felt most there.

Funeral details are yet to be announced.