Mick Fitzgerald today expressed his anger at the treatment of his former boss Nicky Henderson over the drugs furore.

The leading jumps trainer faces a ban later this week after one of his horses, Moonlit Path, owned by the Queen, tested positive for an anti-bleeding drug after racing at Huntingdon in February.

Henderson may be fined between £1,000 and £12,000, while disqualification could run from one month to five years.

But Grand National-winning jockey Fitzgerald, who retired from the saddle last August, says the British Horseracing Authority should take Henderson's record into account.

He said: "I worked for Nicky for 16 years and he is a very honest trainer. I'm very annoyed with the situation, because he'd never do anything to jeopardise his career."

Fitzgerald, who was an instrumental figure in the running and success of Henderson's yard, added: "They are talking about a possible ban and, if it comes to that, I will do whatever it takes to help Nicky in any way I can. If I was in the same situation, he'd be the first to offer his help."

Contrary to a report in one Sunday newspaper, Henderson will not contact the BHA today to seek a personal hearing to make a plea of mitigation.

Last night, his voice wracked with emotion, Henderson explained: "Obviously, I'm disappointed with the decision, but there is no question of a personal hearing. We have to reply to the BHA's findings.

"It's all legal-beagle stuff and I can't go into it. The BHA will then pass a sentence later this week, and then we just have to face things as they come.

"But I would like to reiterate, ten thousand times, that I am so grateful for the support I have received. It has been overwhelming. I went to Ireland last week and could not believe the level of support from the people there, and from over here.

"I will never be able to thank those people enough and it is truly appreciated. I've been very touched by the depth of support and I am so grateful."