Jockey Liam Treadwell's death: We must not let it be in vain, says Sussex trainer

Liam Treadwell, who has died aged 34 / Picture: Getty

A racehorse trainer who was one of tragic jockey Liam Treadwell's closest allies in the sport has pleaded not to let his death be in vain.

Treadwell, who was born and raised in Arundel and attended Angmering School, was found dead last week. He was just 34 and had battled mental health problems for several years.

It's left the racing community again mourning the loss of one of their own and Findon-based trainer Nick Gifford, who had known Liam for nearly 20 years, has paid a glowing tribute, while urging all in racing to take heed of the need for people's mental health problems to be given great importance.

Treadwell made his racing debut as a teenager with a couple of rides in the 2002 season. The pick of them was a second place in the South East Hunt Club members’ race at the Ashford Valley’s Charing meeting in Kent, where he finished second on Cheater, trained by Gifford.

Nick Gifford knew Liam Treadwell for many years

Both then joined the world of licensed racing, with Treadwell becoming an apprentice on the flat before switching to jump racing, and Gifford taking over stables from his father Josh. They've remained in contact since.

Treadwell had learned how to ride at Castle Stables in Arundel where his parents, Lorraine and Mark, had both worked for trainer John Dunlop.

In recent years Treadwell had spoken openly about his battles with his mental well-being and was a great advocate for those suffering similar circumstances.

Racing pays tribute to tragic LiamHis death came less than four months after he was a pall-bearer at the funeral of his friend and former jockey James Banks, who had taken his own life.