Tributes have poured in for Keagan Kirkby, a Ditcheat-based jockey who tragically lost his life following a fall at a point-to-point event in Charing, Kent.

The 25-year-old was participating in the last race of the day when his horse misjudged a fence, leading to a fatal accident.

Despite the swift response from the on-course medical team and air ambulance services, Kirkby's injuries were too severe.

He was a valued member of the team at Paul Nicholls' stables in Ditcheat, having joined in 2019. This year, he was honoured by being shortlisted for an industry-wide employees' award.

The Injured Jockeys Fund stated, "It is with deep sadness that we have to report that West Country point-to-point rider, Keagan Kirkby, 25, has died following a fall at Charing point-to-point in Kent today. "His horse, trained locally, ran out through the wing of a fence on the second circuit of the final race. The on-course medical team attended immediately and despite additional support from a 999 helicopter emergency services crew, he could not be saved.

"Keagan was a respected member of the Paul Nicholls team, who joined in 2019 and who had been awarded employee of the month in December 2021. He was shortlisted for the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards in the Rider/Groom category. We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of Keagan's family and the team at Paul Nicholls Racing at this tragic time."

Paul Nicholls, reflecting on the tragedy, shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, "Life is so hard sometimes, winners totally insignificant compared to what has happened today. Sadly Keagan Kirkby, one of our best, hardworking lads, lost his life today riding in a point-to-point. All at team Ditcheat are mortified. Thoughts with all his friends and family."

Nicholls also remembered Kirkby's passion and dedication, "He was passionate about his job and his riding and rode Afadil every day. Last thing he said to me on Friday was 'boss Afadil will win tomorrow' (at Musselburgh). How right he was. RIP Keag we will all miss you terribly."

Julie Harrington, the CEO of the British Horseracing Authority, expressed her condolences, "We are devastated to hear the tragic news regarding the fatal injuries sustained by Keagan Kirkby. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and everyone at the yard of Paul Nicholls."