 Bradley's ban will take effect from Saturday |
Former top jockey Graham Bradley has lost his appeal against a five-year ban from horse racing. The 44-year-old had claimed that a disqualification imposed by the Jockey Club in 2003 was unlawful and took his case to the High Court.
But his appeal was rejected by Mr Justice Richards, who also ordered him to pay the costs of the hearing.
Bradley was banned after giving evidence at the trial of a friend who was later acquitted of drugs charges.
Bradley, now a bloodstock agent, said he received presents in return for privileged racing information.
He is now considering his options, and lawyers could make an application to the Court of Appeal in a bid to take the case further.
A short statement from solicitors Mischon de Reya said: "Graham Bradley is very disappointed at the result and is in discussion with his legal advisors to consider what steps he should take."
The ban from all activities to do with racing takes effect from Saturday and Bradley was also told he must pay costs with an interim payment of �20,000 to be paid within 28 days.
The judge said: "At the end of the day, I accept the Jockey Club's fundamental submission that in the circumstances of the case, a five-year period of disqualification was on any view a proportionate and lawful penalty".
The Jockey Club welcomed the judge's verdict.
Its public relations director John Maxse said: "It is important for horse racing that its regulator, the Jockey Club, is able to police the sport effectively.
"We should be able to issue appropriate penalties where the offence and the evidence warrant it.
"The findings (of the judge) will assist the Jockey Club in carrying out its vital duties in upholding the integrity of the sport."
During his evidence, Bradley said he was treated to nights out and the occasional flight, and cash payments, from a man called Brian Wright.
But Bradley's lawyers said his evidence at Southampton in 2001 was given without legal advice or any warning in relation to it.
Although the disqualification was due to come into force in July 2003, it was not invoked after Bradley launched legal proceedings.
Bradley said his ban will "strangle" his fledgling bloodstock agent business completely.
The Yorkshireman's career in the saddle included victory in the 1983 Cheltenham Gold Cup on Bregawn.
Other triumphs included the King George VI Chase in 1985 on Wayward Lad - the name of the horse was later used as the title for his autobiography.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
The Jockey Club should be able to issue appropriate penalties where the offence and the evidence warrant it 