A number of horses have died following races at the Grand National festival this year.
Today, Elle Est Belle suffered a suspected heart attack on the run to the line in the 2.25pm Betway Mersey Novices' Hurdle on Saturday. The Dan Skelton-trained horse, ridden by Harry Skelton, collapsed when finishing fourth and a green tent was erected around the six-year-old.
It was confirmed Elle Est Belle had to be put down. Captain Conby, ridden by Kevin Sexton, also went down in the race. After treatment, the five-year-old walked into the horse ambulance before travelling to the vets for further assessment.
