Colic claims Stotsfold

Walter Swinburn’s stable star Stotsfold has died after suffering a bout of colic.

The seven-year-old had four Pattern-race successes to his name and was victorious in the Listed Gala Stakes at Sandown at the start of July.

Connections had thought he was recovering from the illness but the problem flared up again on Tuesday night and he lost his life on the operating table at Newmarket Equine Hospital.

Speaking on his website www.walterswinburn.co.uk, the trainer said: “In the midst of a really good year for the stable, we were dealt a hammer blow this morning with the news that Stotsfold had died on the operating table during the night.

“Almost three weeks after his career-best effort in winning the Gala Stakes at Sandown, he was found to be suffering with colic and following several days of intense treatment and observation, he seemed to be over it.

“Sadly the problem recurred late last night and he was immediately taken to the Newmarket Equine Hospital but they were unable to save him.

“He will be greatly missed around the yard but the memories will definitely linger long.”

As well as his nine career victories, Stotsfold also finished third in the 2009 Arlington Million and was placed a total of six times, amassing over £330,000 in prize-money.