‘There’s always someone to listen’: trainer takes on epic challenge for rider who died aged 20

An instructor at the National Horseracing College (NHC) has raised over £1,000 in memory of a former student – and to help other young people realise “there is always someone there to listen”.

Natalie Dunning completed the Yorkshire three peaks challenge on 10 May in aid of men’s mental health charity Andy’s Man Club. She was inspired by the memory of former student and stable lad Billy Moffatt, who died aged 20 a year ago.

“Billy was a valued member of staff within the racing industry,” said Natalie. “He was a likeable character and his loss has been felt deeply by members of the racing community and instructors here at the college.”

“By raising funds for Andy’s Man Club, I hope to honour Billy’s memory and make sure other young people in racing know there is always someone there to listen.”

Natalie completed the challenge in five hours and 45 minutes.

“It was incredibly hard,” she said “I wasn’t naive to the fact it would be, but it was nothing in comparison to what Billy and his family went through and that kept me going when I really started to struggle.

“Working with learners every day, you remember them long after they have graduated from the NHC. I still think about Billy a lot and it’s a reminder how important my job is and the impact we can make at the college, to care and support young people in racing.

“I hope it’s a reminder to students that we are always here to listen and support them, and that doesn’t stop when they graduate.”

The JustGiving donation page will be open until Sunday 31 May.

The NHC also reminded those in the industry of charity Racing Welfare, which offers support and guidance in all areas, including finance, housing and mental health.

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