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.