Jockey banned for six months after positive cocaine test

Jockey Jack Mitchell has been banned from riding for six months after testing positive for cocaine.

Mr Mitchell, 22, underwent a drugs test at Newmarket racecourse in May.

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has banned him from 7 October until 6 April 2012.

In a statement, he admitted his behaviour was “unacceptable as well as foolish”.

• Fellow jockey and recent Ayr Gold Cup winner (17 September) Franny Norton has been suspended for 40 days after failing an alcohol breath test, which was taken at Chester on 5 May. He will be out from 7 October until 23 November.

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