A GROUP of Yorkshire jockeys have come together to help those less fortunate than themselves with the Harrogate Homeless Project.

Often travelling to race meetings with only the contents of a washbag – most jockeys’ equipment is transported between racecourses via the valets - the jockeys

have filled spare washbags with useful contents to donate to the needy.

The idea came from Adele Mulrennan whose husband Paul is a leading Yorkshire jockey.

She said: “I have seen people sleeping rough in Harrogate and wanted to do something to help.

“I spoke to the team at the Harrogate Homeless Project who suggested some useful products and Paul gave me one of his washbags to put them in.

“He thought that some of the other lads in the weighing room would get involved too and the idea has spiralled.

“The support from the jockeys has been great, but the biggest challenge has been collecting the completed bags, particularly as racing was cancelled for a few days due to the equine influenza outbreak. “Fortunately once it resumed we were able to pick up the momentum again.”

A number of Yorkshire racecourses have also got involved by making up their own washbags and by donating items and clothing.

Liz Hancock, chief executive of the Harrogate Homeless Project Ltd, said: “We are grateful for all donations received and this cause has really resonated among the jockeys.”