One of the most remarkable accidents ever seen on a racecourse took place when the Cuckfield Handicap Chase was run at Plumpton, today. Just as Roman Chief was moving up to take closer order with Peaceful Walter, a private motor-car began to cross the track. The next thing that spectators by saw was the car rolling over on its side and a racehorse and jockey flying through the air. S. Magee was thrown clear about 20 yards away but Roman Chief broke his leg and had to be destroyed.

Magee, who escaped serious injury, said in describing the accident, ‘I saw the car crossing the course and realising the danger tried to get past on the inside but the driver then stopped. I could not avoid the car and we crashed into it, crumbling up part of the bodywork. The driver was thrown over the car.’

Liverpool Evening Express, 15 February 1941.

Contributed by Malcolm Davison.

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