Alner aid fund launched

A trust fund in aid of the popular Dorset trainer Robert Alner will be launched on Monday.

Alner suffered life-threatening injuries in a car crash last November and at the heart of the project is a ball at Wincanton racecourse on Saturday, October 11.

Many of the biggest names in jump racing are expected to be present, while the majority of the proceeds from Jim Old’s annual charity golf day at Marlborough in August will also go to the Alner fund.

His wife Sally said: “Both of us are overwhelmed by all the support Robert has received since his accident.

“People have been amazing and the Injured Jockeys Fund has been there for Robert from day one.

“We can’t thank everyone enough for all their efforts and are deeply touched that a fund has been set up for him.”

Alner’s long-time stable jockey Andrew Thornton is one of the trustees.

He added: “There are lots of practical things we can do to make Robert’s life a little easier when he resumes back at the yard.

“Unfortunately most of them cost money. That’s why we are launching a fund to help him.”

The 64-year-old suffered serious neck injuries in the accident and subsequently endured several operations. He continues to make steady progress at Odstock Hospital near Salisbury.

The Robert Alner Fund has already been boosted by contributions from a dinner dance at Cheltenham racecourse in January.

Lambourn trainer Charlie Mann is organising a golf day on June 30 while champion Paul Nicholls handed over his winning percentage from his hunter chase victories this season.