Elsworth's absence is backed by Dunwoody

Dunwoody – now a renowned explorer – suffererd various head injuries during his distinguished career, and he can sympathise with Elsworth who has been out of action since being knocked unconscious last August.

The 29-year-old – who came to prominence with his successful association with the mercurial Mister McGoldrick - had hoped to be return to the saddle before next month's Cheltenham Festival.

But his progress has been painstakingly slow and Elsworth has made it clear that he does not want to do anything that jeopardises his career -or long-term health.

"His consistency and strength in the saddle meant he was fast becoming one of the most sought-after riders around," said Dunwoody on his website.

"He's taking the wisest route. You cannot rush back from concussion, particularly one as severe as his.

"I feel for Dominic and his friends and family. While it is going to be hugely frustrating for him to watch prized rides like Arkle Trophy hope Somersby go to his colleagues, you can bet their thoughts are with him.

"Hopefully, we will be able to celebrate this excellent jockey for the right reasons in the future."

Dunwoody suffered two concussions during his career. He recalls how, after one fall in 1989, he was found by a fellow rider in the sauna half an hour after the last race. He has no idea how long he had been there.

"That evening I watched a video re-run of the day's racing and was amazed to see myself talking to the racecourse doctor after the last fall – I'd had another earlier in the day. I had no recollection of this whatsoever," he said.

After another fall, Dunwoody had to be reminded that he had separated from his wife Carol – and then he was no longer riding for Martin Pipe, the then champion trainer.

"It is easy to make light of it now, but concussion is no laughing matter," he added.

Having left the Bingley stables of Sue and Harvey Smith to base himself in Lambourn in order to further his career, Elsworth had established himself as one of the country's most accomplished horsemen before his injury setback.

The gamble paid off. Top trainers were lining up to offer the likable Yorkshireman rides after being impressed by his tactical acumen, like his determination to land the spoils on the Lucy Wadham-trained El Dancer at Aintree last April despite a serious shoulder injury that ultimately cost him a high-profile ride in the Grand National.

He primarily rides for Wadham and Oliver Sherwood, two trainers who've offered their full support to the stricken rider who is engaged to top trainer Jonjo O'Neill's daughter Louise.

Another admirer is Henrietta Knight, the former Gold Cup-winning trainer, whose Somserby - previously ridden by Elsworth - is tipped to scale steeplechasing's great heights.

"We have spoken to Dominic and he is now resigned to the fact that that he's not going to be back this season," said Sherwood.

"Dominic had hoped to be back before the New Year, so he is obviously very frustrated, but he'll be back when he's ready. He hasn't set a time limit on things."