Injured jump jockey set to apply for licence to resume race-riding

However the 25-year-old, who is now riding out on a regular basis for Malton’s Ebor-winning trainer Brian Ellison, has been told that he can expect no favours from the British Horseracing Authority.

“Jockeys and riders are required to meet the BHA ‘Medical Standards for Fitness to Ride’ on an on-going basis,” said BHA media manager Robin Mounsey.

“For those who wish to return to race-riding following a serious injury, appropriate medical examinations and tests will be undertaken to determine that they meet the medical standards.”

However Mr Toomey, who lives near Boroughbridge, says he has already emerged unscathed from a fall on the gallops – and is not fazed by his life-threatening fall from Solway Dandy at Perth in July last year.

Part of his skull had to be cut away by surgeons who have described Mr Toomey’s recovery as “a miracle”.

“I’ve schooled over fences and I’ve had a fall and I took it well. If I got back it might inspire some people who are ill and those who’ve been injured and I think it can be done,” he said.

“I’ve done loads of work and researched sports men and women who have had similar injuries and have got back. It’s going to be tricky, but my surgeons and doctors are very happy with me.

“I wasn’t allowed to ride out until it had been a year. The minute it was I started riding out for Brian Ellison every day and I really appreciate his help. There’ll probably be some more tests I’ll have to do and anything I’m asked to do I’ll put 100 per cent effort into it.”