Top horse racing trainer Sam Thomas and owner Dai Walters in horrific helicopter crash and rushed to hospital
A TOP horse racing trainer and owner cheated death in a horror helicopter crash.
Welsh Grand National-winning trainer Sam Thomas, 38, and popular owner Dai Walters were among five believed to be on board the chopper.
Walters remains in hospital with more serious injuries and is currently being assessed by doctors.
Thomas, who was a top jockey before becoming a trainer, is said to be among four who have returned home with minor injuries.
The helicopter crashed to ground in woodland in Denbighshire, Wales, on Tuesday evening.
There was reported to be a ‘huge rescue response’ launched at Llanelidan, near Ruthin at about 5.30pm.
Inspector David Cust from North Wales Police said: “Officers attended alongside colleagues from Welsh Ambulance and North Wales Fire and Rescue as part of a joint emergency response.
“All the occupants have been accounted for, with four people having been taken to hospitals across the area.
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“None of the injuries are thought to be life-threatening or life-changing at this time.
“Whilst a multiple agency response remains at the scene, the ongoing investigation into the cause will be dealt with by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.”
A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesman confirmed four fire engines rushed to the scene.
A narrow access vehicle and technical rescue unit were also on hand, ‘mainly assisting with checking casualties’, according to the Daily Post.
Walters, a longtime supporter of racing and much-admired owner, and Thomas had a runner at Warwick on Tuesday afternoon.
It is believed the helicopter came down on their journey back from the racing.
Thomas, who is from Abergavenny in Wales, won the Cheltenham Gold Cup as a jockey and is starting to make waves in training.
He had a winner at Ascot just last Saturday when Our Power won £57,000 with victory in the London Gold Cup.
Racing fans were quick to pray for a speedy recovery for the pair, with one saying: “Terrible this, hope all involved recover OK.”
More to follow.