Bradley claims the Jockey Club's ban is unlawful

Graham Bradley faces an anxious wait to learn whether his appeal against a five-year ban by the Jockey Club has been successful at London's High Court.

After hearing evidence, the judge reserved judgement and will give his decision in writing in the next month.

In his closing submissions, Timothy Higginson, acting on behalf of Bradley, told the judge that his "rare talent" should not be lost to the industry.

He added that the evidence "could not amount to the basis for such a ban".

Bradley, 44, claims the Jockey Club's ban, imposed in April 2003, is unlawful.

He wants Mr Justice Richards to grant him an injunction or damages for breach of contract.

Profile: Graham Bradley

The order prevents Bradley from entering any racecourse or premises owned, used or licensed by the Club and from dealing in any capacity with a racehorse.

It was imposed in the wake of his appearance at Southampton Crown Court in September 2001 when he gave evidence at the trial of a friend who was later acquitted of drugs charges.

During his evidence, Bradley stated that he had received presents in the form of nights out and the occasional flight, and cash payments, from a man called Brian Wright in return for privileged racing information.

Higginson said Bradley's evidence at Southampton was given without legal advice or any warning in relation to it.

Yorkshire-born Bradley'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.