A horse has died on the second day of the Grand National meeting at Aintree following a nasty fall.

Lucinda Russell’s Giovinco fell when challenging in the latter stages of the Mildmay Novices’ Chase on Friday afternoon (April 12).

The seven-year-old fell when making ground on the home straight, requiring treatment on the track.

The Express reported: "Giovinco was widely tipped as a great each-way chance for the opener of Ladies Day at the Grand National Festival and looked set to reward the faith of punters when making up ground heading towards the last."

Concern swept the crowd following the fall and it sadly proved to be a fatal injury.

Tributes paid to Giovinco following race at Aintree

Many tributes were paid to Giovinco on social media following the news of its passing, with many writing comments on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Racing TV, who broadcast the event, posted: "Heartbreaking news We are sorry to announce the sad passing of Giovinco. Our thoughts go out to Lucinda Russell & connections."

Another account shared: "RIP Giovinco The news we were dreading. Thoughts with the @LucindaRacing team and all involved with the horse. Tough to take."

Meanwhile, one person wrote: "RIP giovinco. Thoughts go out to everyone connected with the horse. Cruel part of the game :(".

One person shared: "Desperately sad news regarding the passing of Giovinco after the opener at Aintree Thoughts are with Lucinda Russell and connections."

Sadness was evident throughout the messages shared, with another posting: "Gutted that we’ve lost Giovinco. Such a talented horse with undoubtedly his best days still ahead of him. He did not deserve that today."

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In an official statement, Nina Copleston-Hawkens, Animal Aid Campaigner said: "It is reprehensible that yet another horse has lost their life at The Grand National Meeting – a life that, whilst deemed inconsequential by the racing industry, was precious and important.

"That horses continue to die in horrific and terrifying ways during a race is scandal enough, but even the horses ‘lucky’ enough to survive face uncertain futures where disposal methods such as slaughter and knacker men are commonplace once no longer deemed ‘of use’ to the industry.

"Make no mistake - despite the fortunate ones who may find a loving home post-career with a compassionate person - there are no happy endings here.”