British author, former jockey Dick Francis passes away at 89

LONDON - Thriller writer and ex-champion jockey Dick Francis has died aged 89, his family has said.

Famous for his horse racing-based crime novels, Francis wrote more than 40 best-selling novels during his career, was also champion jockey in the 1950s and the Queen Mother’s jockey, reports The BBC.

His son Felix Francis said he was “devastated” at the loss of his father.

“We share in the joy that he brought to so many over such a long life. It is an honour for me to be able to continue his remarkable legacy through the new novels,” he added.

His family said he “died of old age”.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said the Queen would be “saddened” by the news.

Former jockey John Francome said: “He was a lovely person who always had a sparkle in his eye and he had a wicked sense of humour.

“I remember we used to laugh out loud about the old times.” (ANI)