The Lambourn amateur jockey Alec Lawson Cottrill was killed in a fall on Saturday August 5, 1933.
Riding Semi-quaver, owned and trained by his father, Mr H.Cottrill, he fell a furlong from the finish whilst competing in the Hamsey Handicap at Lewes.
He appeared to fall against one of the uprights and he lay motionless. He was rushed to the Victoria Hospital at Lewes where he was found to be suffering from concussion. An x-ray taken showed that no bones were broken. Later, severe internal injuries were discovered and an operation was performed, but they were unable to save him. He died on August 10.
A very accomplished rider, he was only 23.
First, in 1927, and then every year after (except 1928) he headed the list of winning amateur riders under Jockey Club Rules.
He had his first ride in public when just 16, and, on that occasion, won the Bibury Welter Handicap at Salisbury on the King's horse, Bowood.
He had, for two years, been acting as assistant trainer to Lambton, Lord Derby's trainer, and would certainly have followed his father in becoming a successful trainer.
Alec was the most charming of men, never depressed and always in the same mood. Even after becoming famous, he still retained the same boyish personality of his schooldays. Alec had the most charming of manners and an invariable cheerfulness and displayed, at times, an attractive wistfulness.
Alex's funeral took place at Kingston Lisle Church, near Wantage, Berkshire at 1.30 p.m on 12 August.
He left estate valued at £1,048.
