AP McCoy ‘devastated’ at Graham Lee’s injuries and vows to do whatever it takes ‘for as long as it takes’ for old rival

LEGENDARY jockey AP McCoy has said he is ‘devastated’ at Graham Lee’s injuries – as the whole of racing was urged to pray for the injured rider.

Grand National hero Lee, 47, remains in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a terrible fall at Newcastle last Friday night.

PA:Press AssociationRacing is praying for Grand National hero Lee, who remains in intensive care after an awful fall[/caption]

He has suffered damage to his spinal cord but, in a brief bit of positive news, it was confirmed his sedation had been reduced.

McCoy, the 20-time champion jockey, vowed to do whatever it takes ‘for as long as it takes’ to help his old rival.

Speaking in his role as president of the Injured Jockeys Fund, McCoy, 49, said: “Like everyone in racing, we at the IJF are all devastated with the news of the injuries that Graham Lee sustained from his horrific fall.

“All our thoughts are with Graham, his wife Becky, and their family.

“As bad as Graham’s injuries are, please do rest assured that our team at the IJF will look after his needs to assist him in his recovery and predicament for as long as it takes.

“Whatever help he and his family need, we will be there to provide it.”

BHA boss Julie Harrington said they are doing everything to assist his family, and urged the sport to pray for one of their own.

She said: “We are shocked to hear the distressing news regarding the injuries suffered by Graham Lee.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends and the whole sport is praying for one of its finest ambassadors.

“We are doing everything we can to support Graham and his family, and we ask that everyone respect the privacy of his family at this time.”

A statement on Lee’s health was released on Sunday night.

It read: “Jockey Graham Lee’s MRI scan has shown that he has suffered an unstable cervical fracture causing damage to the spinal cord, as well as damage to blood vessels in the mid-cervical region.

“He remains in ITU with respiratory support at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital in Newcastle, but it has been possible to reduce his sedation.

“This is a very serious injury and at this early time, it is not possible to predict the extent of long-term recovery.

“Graham’s family are very grateful for the many messages of support that they have had.”

Lee won the 2004 Grand National on Amberleigh House for trainer Ginger McCain, who also trained Red Rum.

The Irish jockey had more than 1,000 winners over jumps before switching to the Flat in 2012.