One of England's most famous racing families is in mourning following the loss of trainer John Hills.

The eldest of five sons of legendary trainer Barry Hills and the brother of top jockeys Richard and Michael, the 53-year-old died on Sunday after short illness.

Hills took out a trainer's licence in 1987 after working for several trainers including John Gosden and the late Colin Hayes in Australia.

The best horses he trained were classy middle-distance performer Broadway Flyer and Wind In Her Hair, the winner of the Group One Aral Pokal in Germany who went on to become the dam of Japanese champion Deep Impact.

He also handled smart miler Docksider, who landed the 1999 Hong Kong Mile.

"I couldn't have wished for a better older brother and I'll miss him immensely," Charlie Hills, his half-brother and also a leading trainer, said.

"He was always so much fun to be around, extremely clever and witty.

"He had time for everyone and saw the best in everyone. He was a very talented trainer and we were all so proud of his achievements.

"(Daughters) Jessica, Olivia, Martha and Issie were a huge credit to him and Fiona and I can't begin to explain how much we will miss him as a family."