Scottish Grand National-winning jockey Richie McGrath is "shocked and bitterly disappointed" after he was charged with breaching rules in relation to betting.
The rider, along with former trainer Kate Walton, is facing punishment after allegedly passing on information about horses for betting purposes.
Five other people are believed to be under investigation by the British Horseracing Authority, who have scheduled a provisional hearing for November 11.
Speaking on behalf of the jockey, McGrath's solicitor Andrew Chalk said in a statement: "Richie is shocked and bitterly disappointed to be facing charges, but vigorously maintains his innocence and intends to fight to clear his name, however financially straining that may be.
"However, this case yet again highlights the vast imbalance in resources between the prosecuting authority and those who have to defend themselves, often with their livelihood at stake. A fair hearing demands a level playing field, but these cases are rarely played out on such a surface.
"Additionally, Richie has informed the Professional Jockeys Association that, whilst he fights to clear his name, he will temporarily stand down as a board member of the PJA."
The investigation relates to 57 races that took place from October 2009 to April 2012.
