Fitzgerald hurt in Grand National spill

Mick Fitzgerald was taken to hospital with back injuries after falling from L’Ami in the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree.

The Irishman, a former winner of the race, lasted no further than the second fence.

A spokesman for Aintree said: “Mick Fitzgerald has been taken to Fazakerley Hospital for further examination of spinal injuries.”

Robert Thornton also took a hit when unseated from D’Argent at the 27th fence and was stood down for the rest of the day after feeling shaken-up.

The National was marred by one equine death, last year’s runner-up McKelvey.

He was put down when he was hurt after unseating his rider at the 20th obstacle.