Party to celebrate the life of the late eventer, Tom Gadsby

The life of Tom Gadsby, the young event rider killed in a rotational fall on 18 August, is to be celebrated with a special party next month.

Tom died following a fall in the CIC* at Somerford Park Horse Trials.

He will be buried in his native New Zealand, but former Team GBR rider Tiny Clapham — who employed Tom as her stable jockey — wanted a way for his friends and the eventing community in the UK to say goodbye.

Tiny initially considered organising a memorial service, but opted for a party instead.

“He was 26 years of age; a memorial doesn’t seem to be appropriate,” she told H&H.

“Tom was a free spirit, so it is very fitting — and more in keeping with the age group — that we should celebrate his life with a party,” she added.

The venue is Mill Hill Field, Abbots Ripton, near Huntingdon, Cambs — where the Secret Garden Party festival is held and Tiny’s yard is based.

Tom went to the festival last month and had loved it, she said.

“There is a stage and ampitheatre and we can all share our personal thoughts and poems,” added Tiny.

Donations in Tom’s memory will be taken on the day for a chosen charity that will be decided in due course.

The party is on Tuesday, 3 September from 4pm onwards. Please email Tiny and her team so they have an idea of numbers: tomthegreatgadsby@gmail.com by 30 August

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