AN MP is to take up the case of a former jockey who is facing deportation from Britain despite being described as an “asset” to a North-East racing stable.

Sedgefield MP Phil Wilson has described the threat to Carim “Frankie” Mohideen as “ridiculous” and called for common sense to prevail.

The Northern Echo revealed on Monday that Frankie, 54, who works for County Durham trainer Michael Dods, is racing a race against time amid tighter rules over immigration.

He rode nearly 500 winners in India before moving to Britain nine years ago to work at the racing stable at Denton, near Darlington.

Frankie, who was given his nickname because he idolises Frankie Dettori, is registered with the British Horseracing Authority, has paid tax and National Insurance throughout his stay, has never taken a day off, and has never claimed benefits.

However, his work permit runs out tomorrow (Sunday) because he has been unable to pass a stringent Home Office “Life In The UK” examination, which asks questions about British history and culture. Frankie took the test again on Thursday but failed for the fifth time.

COULD YOU PASS THE LIFE IN THE UK TEST?

Mr Dods, who has been striving to help Frankie pass the test, said: “He’s just a good worker and an asset to the yard but the future for him now looks more uncertain than ever. We appreciate there have to be rules over immigration but it’s hard to find good stable staff and he’s filling a real need here.”

Mr Wilson has now vowed to lobby the Government over Frankie’s plight, saying: “I’ve looked into this and it’s just ridiculous that the rules should work against someone like him.”

The MP said many British people would struggle to answer the questions in the Life In The UK examination.

He added: “He’s not taking anyone else’s job and is clearly highly valued by his employers. There has to be a review of the system in circumstances like this and common sense needs to prevail.”

Anyone who can help Frankie with his studies to pass the examination should contact the stable on 01325 374270 or via the Michael Dods' Racing Facebook page.