Thomas Chippendale suffers fatal heart attack

Four-year-old Thomas Chippendale died at Ascot Racecourse this afternoon just moments after he had won the Hardwicke Stakes.

Just moments after it had crossed the line in first spot, the colt, who was trained by Lady Cecil and ridden by Johnny Murtagh, collapsed with a suspected heart attack.

A horse ambulance was immediately in attendance, but despite the efforts of the medical staff, the 8-1 shot was pronounced dead soon after.

"It's just devastating the way it's finished," said Murtagh. "It should have been a great win. He lost his balance and I don't know what happened to him."

It was the 10th race of Thomas Chippendale's career and he had three previous wins, including one at same course last year.