Elle Est Belle has died after suffering a suspected heart attack during the Mersey Novices' Hurdle at Aintree.
The Dan Skelton-trained mare collapsed during the Grade 1 race on Grand National Day, which was won by the 5-2 favourite Three Stripe Life. Elle Est Belle was held up towards the rear in the early stages and she had made headway towards the leaders when the tragedy occurred.
The four-time winner, including two races at Listed level, was in fourth place when she was pulled up quickly by jockey Harry Skelton in the 2m 4f event.
