A barrier stalls attendant has died after suffering serious injuries in an accident before a race at Haydock.

Stephen Yarborough was in his role as team leader before the fourth race on Friday (Saturday AEST) when the incident happened and the remainder of the meeting was abandoned.

The matter is in the hands of Merseyside Police who confirmed “that a man has died following a collision involving a vehicle at Haydock Racecourse”.

“Emergency services were called at around 3.40pm to reports that a starting stall coupled up to a tractor had been in collision with a male employee on the racecourse,” the police statement said.

“The man, who was aged in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene.”

John Bozza, chief executive at his employer RaceTech, said Yarborough was an experienced handler.

“Our thoughts are very much with Stephen’s family, close friends and his colleagues at this very sad time,” he said.

“Stephen was an experienced and popular member of the team; he will be hugely missed by everyone.

“An investigation into the circumstances of his death will be carried out by detectives and the Health and Safety Executive.”

Nick Rust, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, expressed his shock at the news.

“This is a tragic incident and we are all shocked and saddened,” he said in a statement.

“Stalls handlers carry out a brave and important job each day looking after the safety of the horses and riders and we are grateful for their work.”

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