A trust has been set-up for Michael Mitchell, the Englishman who was New Zealand's champion jumps jockey two seasons ago.

Mitchell was injured in a fall at this year's Queen's Cup meeting in North America. He was knocked unconscious and was airlifted to hospital in Uptown Charlotte where it was discovered he had suffered a broken eye socket and cheekbone as well as a shattered jaw.

A metal plate has been inserted around his eye socket and his jaw is wired shut and he will be out of action for six to eight weeks.

Jumps jockeys in the USA are considered independent contractors and do not have a fund in place to pay them while they are out with injuries or illness.

The fund has been set up to help pay the continuing hospital bills, along with the international flights for his mother, Di Mitchell, who took the first available flights from England to be at her son's side.

Mitchell's New Zealand wins include the 2015 Grand National Steeplechase at Riccarton on High Forty and he rode four winners from 14 rides during his North American stint in 2016.