Tragedy at Warren Greatrex Yard as Stable Lad Billy Moffat Found Dead

The horse racing community is mourning the loss of Billy Moffat, a 21-year-old stable lad who was found dead at his accommodation on the grounds of Warren Greatrex Racing in Hungerford, Berkshire. This marks the third tragic death at the yard in just four years.

Billy had been working as a racing groom with the well-known jump racing trainer for about 12 months. According to The Sun, he had gone out on Friday night and was reportedly in good spirits. Friends said he seemed “absolutely fine” before his sudden death.

The British Horseracing Authority confirmed his employment, and Warren Greatrex released a heartfelt statement, calling Billy a “great member of the team” and praising his sense of humour.

“This is hugely upsetting,” Greatrex said. “We’ve lost someone truly special.”

Tributes poured in from the racing world, with jockey Jack Wilmot sharing an emotional message:

“Billy, words can’t describe the way I’m feeling. I’m absolutely heartbroken. Please, if you’re struggling, talk to someone. Gone far too soon.”

Sadly, this is not the first tragedy at the Rhonehurst base. In 2021, Michael Pitt, 19, died under similar circumstances. Less than a year later, David Thompson, 25, was also found dead near the yard. Both incidents deeply affected the staff and shook the tight-knit racing community.

Greatrex reflected on those earlier losses in a 2022 interview, expressing how difficult it had been to watch his team go through such heartbreak repeatedly.

“It wasn’t easy. You feel responsible. They work for me, but I count them as family.”

Following Billy’s death, his family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses. As of now, the fundraiser has reached £10,500 of its £13,000 target. The page has seen an outpouring of support from friends, racing fans, and well-wishers.

An investigation is underway, but no foul play is suspected at this time. The cause of death has not been officially released.

The racing industry continues to call for more mental health awareness and support for its workers, especially young stable staff who often face high-pressure conditions behind the scenes.