Rider James McNeile dies following point-to-point fall at Larkhill

Point-to-point rider James McNeile has died following a fall at Larkhill on Saturday, the Injured Jockeys' Fund has announced.McNeile was taken to Southampton Hospital by air ambulance after suffering a significant head injury when colliding with a fence at the Wiltshire track.Doctors later found him to have suffered a substantial brain injury and McNeile died on Sunday.A statement issued by the IJF on behalf of McNeile's family said: "It is with much regret that we announce today the death of James McNeile, 57, from Devizes, Wiltshire, following a fall at Larkhill point-to-point course on Saturday, April 1, 2017."James fell in the 3.45 race and collided with the fence sustaining a significant head injury. He was attended immediately by the racecourse medical team which included consultants in emergency medicine and intensive care and anaesthetics as well as paramedics."It was immediately apparent that this was a substantial brain injury and after stabilisation he was flown by air ambulance to Southampton Hospital. He was ventilated from the time of the accident."On arrival and after subsequent examination, it became apparent that the degree of brain damage was such that this was not a survivable injury. James deteriorated overnight and died peacefully on Sunday."James died competing in a sport he loved, and around which he had built his life and some wonderful friendships."Jockey David Crosse paid tribute to McNeile, tweeting: "Devastated about my good buddy James McNeile passing. Always smiling and went doing what he loved. May he RIP."Trainer Martin Keighley added: "Such sad news. Thoughts with his family & friends."