Jockey Martin Harley situation 'not as serious as first feared' after nasty fall at Lingfield on Wednesday

Harley remains in St George's Hospital in Tooting but Paul Struthers confirms further assessments have shown initial fears have been played down

Jockey Martin Harley remains in hospital following a fall at Lingfield on Wednesday (Getty Images)

Martin Harley remains in St George's Hospital in Tooting following a nasty fall at Lingfield on Wednesday.

The rider was reported to have suffered neck and rib injuries after being thrown to the ground when Red Art clipped the heels of horses in front of him in the Ladbrokes Mobile Handicap.

Harley was taken to East Surrey Hospital in nearby Redhill before being transferred to Tooting for further treatment.

Paul Struthers, chief executive of the Professional Jockeys' Association, reports Harley's injuries to be less serious than was initially feared.

He tweeted: "Brief update on Martin Harley - he remains in St George's but following further assessment last night he is not as serious as first feared.

"I've been unable to speak to Martin this morning as his mobile has run out & without his consent can't go into detail. Further update later."