Laverty to be released from hospital

Jockey Derek Laverty is set to be released from hospital after he was reported to be “up and about” this morning.

The 5lb claimer came off worst in a nasty incident at Towcester yesterday, where three horses were involved in a pile-up at the third-last flight of the bestpartiesever.com Mares’ Only “National Hunt” Novices’ Hurdle.

Laverty was airlifted on a stretcher to Milton Keynes General Hospital immediately after the spill with suspected breathing difficulties and a suspected injury to his ribs.

The young rider was assessed upon arrival and after spending the night in Milton Keynes, is set to be discharged later today.

Hospital spokesman Ray Barrowdale explained: “I’ve just literally got back to my desk after having a chat with him and the good news is that he’s going to be discharged.

“I think at the moment he is just waiting for the all-clear but he’s up and about and waiting to go home.

“I can’t tell you too much but he obviously had a nasty fall off his horse and he’s been treated and now he’s ready to go.”