Ginger McCain, trainer of Grand National winner Red Rum, has died aged 80 after a battle with cancer.
McCain guided Red Rum to three victories and two runners-up places at the Aintree event during the 1970s.
"Donald - Ginger as we all knew him - passed away peacefully in his sleep after a short illness this morning. He would have been 81 on Wednesday," said his wife Beryl.
"There will be a private family funeral followed by a later memorial service, for which there will be more information in the coming weeks.
"Joanne, Donald Jnr and I appreciate all the kindness we are being shown and, at this difficult time, would appreciate it if we were afforded some privacy."
McCain, nicknamed "Mister Aintree" because of his record at the Merseyside course, also won a fourth Grand National in 2004 with Amberleigh House.
Written by
Liam Apicella
Liam Apicella
