New Year Honours for those who change people's lives

Bob Champion and leading figures in racing, the Riding for the Disabled Association and equine therapy are named

- ELEANOR JONES

A LEGENDARY former jockey, top racing figures and those who change lives are among those on the New Year Honours List.

Bob Champion was appointed CBE for charitable services to prostate and testicular cancer research. Bob was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1979 and given weeks to live, but two years later won the Grand National on Aldaniti, a horse who had overcome serious leg injuries.

Bob was appointed MBE after that win, which also led to the setting up of the Bob Champion Cancer Trust. Bob paid tribute to all those at the trust for the honour, adding that he was “absolutely chuffed”.

Outgoing British Horseracing Authority (BHA) CEO Nick Rust was very proud to be appointed OBE for services to racing.

BHA chair Annamarie Phelps said she was delighted.