HIGHLAND HUNTER has tragically died just days after leading the funeral procession of amateur jockey Keagan Kirkby.
The 11-year-old grey had been Kirkby’s favourite horse, prior to his heartbreaking passing.
Kirkby died aged 25 after his horse ran into the side of a jump at Charing in Kent last month.
An air ambulance was called to the scene but medics were unable to save him.
In highly emotional scenes, Highland Hunter led the procession at Kirby’s funeral in Ditcheat, Somerset last week.
On day one of this year’s Cheltenham Festival, Highland Hunter ran in the 14:50 Ultima Handicap.
Fears were raised when he pulled up after the third fence from the finish.
Shortly after the race, ITV presenter Ed Chamberlin confirmed that Highland Hunter, ridden by Paddy Brennan, had suffered fatal injuries and would be put down.
Chamberlin, 50, said: “I’m afraid it’s the news we feared.
“The racecourse have been in touch to say this ‘Highland Hunter was immediately attended to by expert veterinary professionals during the third race, the Ultima Handicap, but sadly sustained a fatal injury’.
“They say ‘our heartfelt condolences are with connections’ and we echo that.”
Highland Hunter’s trainer Fergal O’Brien took to social media shortly after the news was confirmed.
He wrote: “Not sure we’ll be tweeting again today after this. Absolutely devastated.
“Thanks for the messages we’re already receiving and those to come #RIPHighlandHunter.”