Tommy Stack recently retired as a racehorse trainer after a career which included success at the highest level.

He is also an accomplished breeder but perhaps he is best known to the general public as the jockey who rode Red Rum to win the 1977 Grand National. It was the horse's third triumph in the race following wins in 1973 and '74.

Born in 1945, Tommy worked in insurance before riding his first winner at age 20. He went on to be champion jump jockey in Britain on two occasions in the 1970s.

As a trainer Tommy consistently competed at the top table. A Cartier Million victory with Corwyn Bay preceded classic wins for Las Meninas and Tarascon. With wife Liz, he bred recent stars The Wow Signal and The Last Lion.

About a decade ago Tommy was struck with a life-threatening bout of meningitis which left him unconscious for 13 days.

However, he regained his health and, despite losing much of his hearing, he continues to live a very active life.

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