The Irish Injured Jockeys was launched at Punchestown on Wednesday, with champion jockey Ruby Walsh announced as chairman of the board.

The aim of the charity is to raise awareness and vital funds for injured riders, with all funds raised going to those most in need of support.

The launch of Irish Injured Jockeys takes place one year after the Limerick Charity Raceday, held in light of two serious injuries sustained by riders JT McNamara and Jonjo Bright in March 2013.

The public rallied in support and the raceday raised in excess of €809,000 of much needed funds.

Walsh said: "There are lots of ways that people can help through donation, fundraising, volunteering and shopping.For further details and to shop our merchandise collection visit www.irishinjuredjockeys.com."

Leading National Hunt jockey Andrew McNamara has been appointed as secretary of Irish Injured Jockeys, while Barry Geraghty, David Casey, Davy Russell and Pat Smullen are among those also on the board of directors.

The four honorary patrons who have endorsed the charity are Sue-Ann Foley, Aidan O'Brien, JP Magnier and Sheikh Fahad Al Thani.

Donations can be made through the irishinjuredjockeys.com website or by sending cheques to: Irish Injured Jockeys, c/o Red PR, Unit 2, Kilmolash, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary.

Tel: 052 6184342

Email: info@irishinjuredjockeys.com

The registered charity number is CHY21119

More details in The Irish Field on Saturday