A RICH family history in horse-racing has inspired a long-distance walk to raise money for charities supporting the industry.

Colin Leggat, 72, of Thirsk, is setting off from Catterick Racecourse today and plans to walk to Sedgefield Racecourse, visiting as many racing yards along the route as possible.

Mr Leggat, who aims to complete his walk on Tuesday, is raising money for the Injured Jockeys Fund and Racing Welfare.

Although not directly involved himself, his family has many ties to the sport.

His uncle Hugh Leggat had a stud in the Scottish Borders with horses in training both in the UK and France, his brother-in -law Tanny Leggat had nearly 200 winners as an owner, and his son-in-law, Malton trainer Jimmy Fitzgerald, saddled over 1,200 winners.

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