John Francome insists help is available for all jockeys in wake of sad death of Pat Eddery

Former riding great John Francome insists help is there for all jockeys, past and present, if they need it in the wake of the sad death of Pat Eddery.

Francome, speaking in his role as president of the Injured Jockeys Fund, went to see Eddery himself recently after hearing of his troubles.

The 11-times champion jockey had been battling alcoholism in recent years and his daughter Natasha wrote an emotional tribute on Wednesday revealing she had not seen him for five years after a spell in rehab failed.

Francome, though, is happy with the services on offer via his organisation and the Professional Jockeys Association.

"If any jockey needs help there is plenty of assistance out there," said Francome.

"There's as much help as they want, but they've got to want help in the first place. I went to see Pat a month ago with two almoners - he didn't know we were coming - and he hadn't had a drink.

"There's only so much you can do. Willie (Carson) offered him all sorts of help, but he just wouldn't accept it. Some people can't be helped.

"As regarding other cases, it depends entirely on the individual. Pat didn't start drinking when he stopped riding, he'd always enjoyed a drink, not to control his weight or anything, just socially. It's very sad, 63 is no age at all.

"Everything is in place for those who need it, just a phone call away.

"However, they can only be helped if they want help in the first place."

Dale Gibson, executive director (racing) of the PJA, said: "Procedures are in place whereby jockeys can contact either the IJF or the PJA. There is also a depression helpline, where riders can be offered assistance when they need it.

"Procedures to help them have been in place for a number of years and it is the same situation whether you are a current jockey or a former rider.

"It is only 24 hours since we heard the news and I think we're all still trying to get over the shock of it at the moment.

"Having ridden with Pat for 16 years, I'm still very emotional about what is a terribly sad situation."