False starts and runaways: Grand National drama

Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacob Credit: Anna Gowthorpe/PA Wire

Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacob won the 2012 John Smith's Grand National meeting at Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool.

The race was one of the most dramatic in recent memory with Tony McCoy falling from one of the favourites Synchronised before they had reached the starting line.

Synchronised bolted and made his way independently down the course before being caught at the first hurdle.

McCoy and his mount were soon reunited but the delay in the race caused further problems as over-eager horses and jockeys caused two false starts.

Tony McCoy falls from Synchronised before the John Smith's Grand National Credit: PA

Once the wire was reset the race got under way with Shakalakaboomboom taking an early lead.

Neptune Collonges eventually won by a nostril in an incredibly close photo finish, with Sunnyhillboy ridden by Richie McLernon second and the only female jockey Katie Walsh coming in third on Seabass.

It was announced shortly after the race that two horses that had fallen at different fences had been put down after suffering fractures. Synchronised and According to Pete were both destroyed at Aintree.

Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacob runs clear as According to Pete and Henry Haynes and On His Own and Paul Townshend fall at Bechers Credit: PA

Professor Tim Morris, Director of Equine Science and Welfare for the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), reacted to the deaths:

Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacobs (left) goes on to win during the John Smith's Grand National

The RSPCA has said that due to the excessive use of the whip the result should not stand and Neptune Collonges should be stripped of the win. Gavin Grant, chief executive of the RSPCA said that the race contained too many risks for the horses:

Neptune Collonges ridden by Daryl Jacob (back right in yellow) clears the last fence before going on to win the John Smith's Grand National Credit: Anna Gowthorpe/PA Wire