TRIBUTES were paid this week to former jockey Paddy Donaghy, who died in hospital on Sunday at the age of 39 after an alleged assault six days earlier.

The incident reportedly occurred in a property in Newtownards, Co Down, with a report in the Belfast Telegraphindicating a “physical altercation” broke out between the popular horseman and his older brother Joseph, who appeared at Newtownards Magistrates Court last week charged with causing grievous bodily harm. The siblings apparently attended a funeral on the same day.

Legal representatives described what happened as a “one-punch case”. The defence lawyer said: “I have been asked by the defendant to say he is absolutely grief-stricken by what has unravelled.” The case was adjourned until September 23rd.

Donaghy, the father of a five-year-old son, Lennon, was laid to rest on Friday in Movilla Cemetery.

He rode for nine seasons on the flat in Britain and also had successful stints abroad as a rider, partnering over 60 winners.

Trainer Michael Dods said: “We were sad to hear of the passing of former jockey Paddy Donaghy at just 39. Paddy, a real character with a great sense of humour, used to ride out at Denton Hall and rode in a few races for us. Our thoughts are with his loved ones. Rest in peace, Paddy.”

Donaghy’s father John recorded a trio of wins on the subsequent triple Irish Grand National winner Brown Lad.