Piggott fine after health scare

Piggott retired from the saddle in 1994

Racing legend Lester Piggott has been given the all-clear after spending Christmas in hospital.

The 71-year-old was admitted to West Suffolk Hospital after complaining of feeling unwell on Christmas Eve but was back home in Newmarket five days later.

The 11-time champion jockey underwent tests for a suspected heart problem but his daughter Maureen Haggas said that "the results have come back fine".

Piggott rode 4,493 winners in his career, including nine Derby victories.

"My father said he didn't feel great on Christmas Eve and they thought it best to take him in. It wasn't anything dramatic," said Haggas.

"He travelled to Hong Kong last month, which may have taken a lot out of him at 71."

Piggott is expected to be well enough to attend the Lesters, the annual racing awards ceremony held in his honour, in London on 13 January.

Former jockey Bruce Raymond spoke to Piggott on Thursday night.

"He seemed fine, very bright really, and said he was looking forward to going to The Lesters," said Raymond.

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