Tommy Sheridan, a former stallion man at Dalham Hall Stud, has died at the age of 77, the Racing Post reported on Thursday.
The dual Group 1 winner Machiavellian was among the stallions Sheridan cared for in his time at Darley's Dalham Hall, having previously had spells working for trainer Noel Murless and at the National Stud.
Sheridan remained at Dalham Hall until 2007 when he transferred to Limes Farm in Woodditton, the base for Sheikh Mohammed's endurance horses.
“We're all deeply saddened here at Dalham Hall, and indeed at Kildangan Stud in Ireland, as Tommy's name is mentioned so warmly,” Liam O'Rourke, Darley's director of studs, stallions and breeding, told David Milnes of the Racing Post.
“He was a true team player, exemplary worker, and a fine horseman. His invariably cheerful demeanour endeared him to his many work colleagues and friends alike. His work ethic was extraordinary and he was in full employment [at Limes Farm] right up to his illness.
“He was happiest in the workplace and was amazingly versatile, while always maintaining an admirably high standard of work. His early years, served as an apprentice to Sir Noel Murless, had a meaningful impact on his work life as his ability to handle and turn his stallions out to the highest standard was quite unique. He had obviously learned much from the old schoolmasters attached to that great yard.”
O'Rourke added, “Tommy was also an avid footballer, playing with aplomb on our stud team well into his fifties. He could always be counted upon, was always dependable, always eager, always a true gentleman.
“I feel I'm barely scratching the surface here as there are so many happy memories of our work life with Tommy. Rarely have we had such a respected and thoroughly loved, long-serving stalwart of our stud staff.”
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