A horse owner who comforted her neighbour’s dying horse after it was struck by a lorry while being led in from the field has called for more to be done to tackle road safety.

Elizabeth Graney was driving to her own yard at around 7.30am on Tuesday morning (26 October) when she came across the scene of the accident.

Three horses were being led back to their yard by their owner when they were struck by a lorry on the B4069 close to Dauntsey Lock near Chippenham.

One horse escaped unhurt, another suffered minor scrapes and the third was fatally injured. The horses’ owner was also taken to hospital with a shoulder injury, where she is still being treated.

Several passers-by attended to the owner and horses, two of which had run back to the yard.

“It’s everyone’s worst nightmare, it’s heartbreaking,” said Elizabeth, who dealt with the horses with the help of a mother and daughter who were also at the scene.

“There was nothing we could do other than be there. You just go into autopilot and it’s afterwards it hits you, it’s an image you can’t unsee.

“I know from speaking to the other two ladies who were there that they can’t sleep. I am just grateful my 14-year-old daughter wasn’t with me that morning.”

Elizabeth said she recognised the horse’s owner, whose yard is around a mile away from her own, having waved to her many times while she was out hacking.

“It’s just devastating for her,” she said. “Everybody knows her locally and I have had a lot of messages from people asking if they could do anything to help her.

“Everyone has pulled together and I know she has close friends looking after her horses.”

Elizabeth said she believed the owner had crossed the road morning and night with her horses for many years but that the stretch had become increasingly dangerous.

“I have to drive that road two or three times a day to get to my own yard and it is a notorious spot as it’s a section that goes from a 40mph to a 60mph limit and everyone seems such a rush to get somewhere. When you’re driving through at the speed limit there is always someone right on your bumper waiting to overtake at the first opportunity.

“Every time I go down that section of road I almost hold my breath. There have been problems before but never something like this.”

She added that at the point where the accident happened was reasonably wide.

“From what I saw when I got there, it looked like the owner had crossed the road and was 10-20 yards away from her gate, and was at the very edge of the road when it happened.”

Elizabeth said that the lorry driver had stopped at the scene and “appeared devastated” by the accident.

She is now calling for more to be done to tackle the relationship between drivers and horses on the road, as no horse owner “chooses to take a risk”.

“My daughter doesn’t want to hack out any more since we had a close shave ourselves,” she said. “We’ve got an arena we can ride in but not everyone has that luxury.

“I don’t have the answers to what we can do about it but there has to be more action that can be taken — whether it’s more driving training awareness or more campaigns to come out of the equestrian world.

“It’s becoming a bigger and bigger issue.”

A Wiltshire Police spokesman confirmed that officers were called to a road traffic collision on the B4069 close to Dauntsey Lock on Tuesday.

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Two young riders have died in a car crash in Florida.

Dana McWilliams, 19, and Christian Kennedy, 21, died in the accident in Wellington on 25 November.

Elaine Halloran, 24, who was also in the car, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Tributes have poured in for the pair.

Christian, from Iowa, had recently taken part in the “Future Stars” training programme with US dressge coach Robert Dover and was working for US-based Israeli dressage rider Oded Shimoni.

“OS Dressage, the Wellington community, and the entire horse world suffered another major blow and loss of young life last night in a tragic car crash in Wellington,” said a tribute from Oded on his Facebook page.

“We are all devastated to have lost incredible human beings and young talents.

“Christian was a breath of fresh air, an eternal optimist, a true horse person who really loved horses, a hero to many, and a fabulous rider.

“May this be yet another strong half-halt to everyone. Life is precious and must be treated as such.”

Fundraising pages to help the families of both Dana and Christian with funeral expenses have been set up.

A tribute from Christian’s friends on his memorial page remembered him as “hardworking, caring and kind”.

“Christian always had a lovely warm smile and easy manner,” read the tribute.

“All who knew him loved him and we are all trying hard to accept his loss.”

Dana, who hailed from Connecticut, had recently moved to Florida to work for showjumper Maarten Huygens.

Dana’s brother, David McWilliams, paid tribute to his sister on her fundraising memorial page.

“Words cannot express the devastating heartbreak that my family and I feel in knowing that we’ve lost my beautiful, 19-year old sister, Dana McWilliams,” he said.

“She was such a beautiful person, so full of life and she was loved by so many people.

“This loss is so sudden, so tragic and feels barely comprehensible.

“We thank you all who have reached out and appreciate all the message of love and support.”

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The Australian equestrian community has been left saddened after the deaths of two of its members last weekend.

On Sunday (29 May) a 12-year-old girl died after she was trampled by the horse she was leading.

Billie Kinder was found with serious head, chest and abdominal injuries at a property in Pitt Town, Hawkesbury.

It is believed that the horse she was leading was spooked and trampled her.

She was treated by police and paramedics, but sadly died in the ambulance rescue helicopter on the way to hospital.

Equestrian New South Wales chief executive paid tribute to “one of our best young riders”.

“Billie competed at the NSW Interschools Championships in 2014 and 2015,” he said.

“In 2015, she was the Champion Primary School Showjumping Rider and Overall Primary School Champion Rider.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Billie’s family at this very sad time.”

Sydney Showjumping Club (SSJC), of which Billie was a member, also sent their condolences to her family.

“It’s with tremendous sadness that the SSJC committee advises that Billie Kinder, a much loved and admired member of Sydney Jump Club, tragically died yesterday,” said a statement on Monday (30 May).

“A rider with talent beyond her years, Billie, her sister Charlie, and her parents are very active supporters of SSJC and valued members of our show jumping community.

“We offer our heartfelt condolences to Danny, David, Charlie and their family.”

The tragedy occurred a day after Australian racehorse trainer Hana Dickson, 31, died in a riding accident (28 May).

A statement from the Western Australian Racing Trainers’ Association (WARTA) said it is understood she was riding at a property in Hopeland when she may have hit a tree.

“Hana was a popular young trainer and in a tragic irony she was expected to return to racing at Belmont with Disciple after an absence of a couple of years,” said a WARTA spokesman.

He added the WARTA committee and its members offer their “deepest and heartfelt condolences” to Hana’s family “at this most heartbreaking time”.

WARTA president Trevor Andrews said that Hana was respected by her peers and had been involved in training for around 10 years.

“Everybody is just so shocked,” he said. “She died doing what she loved, but she was too young.”

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A rider has died after falling from a horse near Stratford-on-Avon in Warwickshire.

Paramedics and the air ambulance were called to Southam at 11.15am on Thursday (7 January).

A spokesman from West Midlands Ambulance Service said: “Crews arrived to find a woman that had suffered serious injuries after falling from a horse.

“The woman was in traumatic cardiac arrest and advanced life support was carried out at the scene by medics.

“Unfortunately, despite everyone’s best efforts, nothing could be done to save the woman’s life and she was sadly confirmed dead at the scene.”

Two ambulances, a doctor and the Midlands Air Ambulance attended the scene. The woman has not yet been named and no more details have been issued.

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A police investigation into the death of Italian event rider Sabrina Manganaro is ongoing.

The eventing community was in shock earlier this month after Sabrina was killed in a fall at a national event.

She was competing in a pre-novice section of a national event in Cuceglio, Italy, on 12 April.

“Her horse Fante Di Mezzograno fell at fence 13 at 10.50am, causing the immediate death,” said the Italian Equestrian Federation (FISE).

The 25-year-old rider was attended to by doctors at the event, but could not be saved. The horse was uninjured. Reports suggest her death might be the result of a rotational fall.

An FISE spokesman told H&H that said an investigation into her death was ongoing. He added that a police inquiry is “standard procedure for an accident of this type in Italy”.

“The magistrate opens an official inquiry and all people who are deemed directly involved are put under investigation,” he said.

The course-designer, technical delegate and event director are all under investigation.

In Britain, similar protocol does not apply.

“We cannot comment on what may or may not be happening in other nations nor would we because it would be inappropriate,” said British Eventing’s Mike Etherington-Smith.

“What we can say is that the world in which course-designers work is one that is not easy.

“The advent of rider reps several years ago was formalising the relationship between officials and riders and this relationship is very good. Riders can at any time approach officials with concerns that they may have about a fence, which is a positive development.

“We are all in the sport because we enjoy it, we know what the risks are and have to accept them whatever our role.”

Sabrina’s death was the second in two months, after Francisco Seabra was killed at an event in Spain in February.

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A rider from Surrey who used to judge and commentate at Oldencraig Equestrian Centre has died while out on a hack.

Sandra Underhill was found lying unresponsive in a stream by emergency services on 7 March. Her horse was nearby.

Ian Winfield, owner of Oldencraig Equestrian Centre in Lingfield, told H&H: “Sandra was one of the loveliest ladies I’ve ever met. She couldn’t do enough for people and was absolutely brilliant.”

Mrs Underhill used to do the entries for the showjumping and children’s shows at Oldencraig and was often in the commentary box.

“Sandra was always extremely supportive to all our clients and competitors,” said Ian Winfield.

Surrey police were called to an area of land in Smallfield at about 10.47am on Saturday 7 March after reports that a woman was spotted not moving in a stream near the road.

Paramedics tried to revive Mrs Underhill at the scene before she was taken in an air ambulance to St George’s Hospital in Tooting.

She was pronounced dead a short time later.

“An investigation surrounding the incident was carried out by detectives from East Surrey CID and the death is currently being treated as unexplained. A file is being prepared and will be passed to the coroner in due course,” said a spokesman for Surrey Police

“The Tandridge Safer Neighbourhood Team will continue to work with the local community following this tragic incident,” she added.

Mrs Underhill was married and had a teenage daughter.

A rider who kept her horse at a yard managed by Mrs Underhill told the local paper: “Sandra was always very courteous and knowledgeable about everything to do with horses.

“She was a very strong character, and very forthright. But she would have helped anyone,” added the rider who preferred not to be named.

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An experienced horsewoman died as the result of being kicked by a horse she was clipping, an inquest in Norfolk heard on Monday (9 March).

Mary Hancy, 55, was helping her daughter Kelly to clip a five-year-old warmblood on 11 January when the accident happened.

In a statement made by her daughter, which was read at King’s Lynn court, the horse’s temperament was described as “good, but young”.

She also said that the horse had been given the mild sedative sedalin approximately an hour before she started clipping.

Miss Hancy said: “As my mother was clipping the horse, it kicked out into her chest. And then she banged her head on a brick wall.”

The East of England Ambulance Service was called to the scene and Mrs Hancy was airlifted to Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge in a critical condition. She died later while undergoing surgery.

Mr Christopher Challand, a surgeon at Addenbrookes, said Mrs Hancy died from a lung injury caused by a blunt trauma.

Norfolk coroner Jacqueline Lake recorded a verdict of accidental death and offered her condolences to Mrs Hancy’s family.

At the time of her death Miss Hancy described by her mother as a “dedicated” horse woman.

“She was passionate about breeding Hanoverian and German warmbloods and had helped run a riding school and stud with her close friends Howard and Valerie Rose.

“She was always a familiar and friendly face at local showjumping competitions.”

The news of Mrs Hancy’s death provoked a huge response online with more than 100,000 people reading the story on the H&H website.

At the time the British Horse Society’s Jo Winfield reiterated the importance of taking all precautions possible when handling horses on the ground.

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Eventers competing at Barroca d’Alva in Portugal are wearing armbands honouring the memory of Francisco Seabra, the eventer who died in a fall in Spain last month (14 February).

The cream, black and blue armbands show the Portuguese rider’s silhouette and initials, with the words “Faith” and “Smile” in four languages.

“It was the show organisers’ idea and they gave all the riders the armbands. It’s been well supported by everyone and it’s amazing how strong the Seabras have been — they set a real example of a family,” said Brazilian rider Ruy Fonseca.

Francisco, 30, fell at the third element of a water obstacle at fence 10c while competing in the CIC2* at the Alegra Rancho Eventing Tour de Utrera in Sevilla, Spain. He was riding 12-year-old Aferzysta, who was not injured.

British competitor David Doel added: “There are stickers and posters everywhere for Francisco — on all the quad bikes and the front of cars. The horseworld out here is so small and almost everyone is related. It’s really nice to see how much love there is for him.”

David has started his season in Portugal every year since 2013, having sampled the charms of the area when he collected junior European team gold and individual bronze at Vale Sabroso in 2011 riding Kings Cross. Last weekend (26 February-1 March), he won the CIC2* on Miss Caruso and was the runner-up in the CIC* on Eisfee. Belgian rider Karin Donckers took the CIC* on Lady Brown.

This weekend (4-8 March) riders have the opportunity to contest a CIC3*, CCI2* or CCI* at the same venue, and David’s horses will both be stepping up to a CCI at their respective levels.

Read more about David’s success at Barroca d’Alva in next week’s H&H (12 March), as well as a report from Isleham and Mark Phillips’ first column of 2015.

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A mother of two suffered fatal injuries when moving two horses between fields in November, an inquest in Kent heard last week (23 February).

Rosemary Turnbull, from Marden, was reportedly moving the horses on as a hunt was due in the area when the accident happened on 12 November .

The court in Maidstone heard that the 62-year-old suffered multiple injuries to her chest and heart.

Her friend Jane Tipples told the court that she was helping to move the horses when she heard Mrs Turnbull “squeal” and turned to see her clutching her stomach.

Mrs Turnball then collapsed and paramedics were called. An ambulance crew spent 40 minutes trying to revive her but she died at the scene.

Pathologist Dr David Rouse told the inquest how the nature of Mrs Turnbull’s injuries ruled out the possibility of a naturally occurring death and said they were consistent with being crushed.

Her husband John told the court it had been “extremely difficult” to come to terms with her death.

“Rosemary was exceptionally loved by myself and our children Oliver and Joanna,” he added.

“She was hugely popular and more than 200 people attended her funeral.”

Coroner Patricia Harding adjourned the inquest in order to get further information from emergency services.

Woman killed in fall from horse spooked by the wind

Janette Smith suffered serious head injuries when her horse bolted and bucked her off out hacking

Horse owner killed in clipping accident

A woman has died from injuries she sustained while clipping her home-bred horse

Awaiting inquest

The inquest into the death of a rider who died from injuries sustained while clipping a horse in January is scheduled to be heard in Norfolk next Monday (9 March).

Mary Hancy, 55, from Norfolk was fatally injured in the accident, while clipping one of her homebred horses.

Her daughter, Kelly, told press at the time that it was case of her being in the “wrong place at the wrong time”.

“We were just clipping at the time and it was the last horse that she had bred,” she said.

“He was only five-years-old and he was a bit spooked by something and kicked out and caught her.”

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A trainer has died after getting stuck under the ramp of a horse transporter in New Zealand yesterday (Monday 2 February).

Steve Anderton, 43, was found seriously injured by colleagues at his yard in Wingatui shortly after 6am.

Constable Jason Braid told local press that it appeared that the hydraulics of Mr Anderton’s transporter had “malfunctioned” while he prepared the ramp to load horses to take them to a local racecourse for training.

It has been reported that the ramp landed on Mr Anderton’s chest, puncturing both his lungs and restricting his breathing

Mr Anderton was taken to Dunedin Public Hospital by ambulance in a critical condition. His wife, Claire, and two children were reportedly flown to Dunedin by helicopter from Te Anau, where they had been on holiday.

His life support machine was switched off today (3 February).

Senior Sergeant Ben Butterfield said the death had been referred to the coroner.

“The family have asked for privacy at this difficult time and will not be making any public comment,” he added.

Southland Racing Club president Sean Bellew said Mr Anderton’s death had shocked the industry.

A minute’s silence has been planned and jockeys will wear black armbands at tomorrow’s Southland Racing Club meeting at Ascot Park.

“It’s so sad what’s happened. The club will certainly show respect and pay tribute to him,” Mr Bellew added.

Otago Racing Club chief executive Andre Klein also paid tribute to the trainer when he heard of the accident.

“Steve is regarded as one of the most professional trainers and a great bloke as well a really, really good guy,” he said.

Mr Anderton made his name as trainer with The Jewel who won the Group One New Zealand 1000 Guineas in 2002 and the Group One International Stakes at Te Rapa.

He trained for eight seasons with his father Hec and also spent six years working for stables in Australia.

Since his father’s retirement he had trained on his own for the past nine seasons and in total had more than 160 winners.

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Following the deaths of several donkeys — including a six-month-old foal — on New Forest roads this winter, a new campaign to urge motorists to slow down has been launched.

Owners Rob and Genette Byford have produced reflective stickers for New Forest donkeys in a bid to save them from road accidents, after one of their donkeys was killed in November.

Jo-Jo, a six-month-old foal, was killed in Brockenhurst on 26 November. She was one of 16 donkeys owned by the couple.

A second of the couple’s donkeys was then hit on 7 December.

Now Genette is trialling reflective stickers attached to her animals to try to make them more visible. Special glue is used to attach the stickers to the hair but more research is needed to find a reflective material that will remain in place for longer.

“I’ve had a number of donkeys and ponies run over and it is heart-breaking every time, she said.

“People just don’t think about the animals being there. We do have reflective collars on most of our animals but I don’t put them on the babies because when they grow the collars get too tight.”

On 3 November three donkeys were killed in one crash at around 5.30am. One animal was killed on impact, the other two were put down after sustaining serious injuries (news, 27 November). A spokesman for the New Forest verderers told H&H it was the worst accident she’d seen in 20 years of working in the forest.

Nigel Matthews, of the New Forest National Park Authority added: “The majority of accidents involve local people, many of whom become complacent as they go about their daily business. We are again appealing to drivers to be more careful. We should all drive knowing that there might be an animal on the road.”

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A group of hounds have been killed after running onto a railway line in Devon on Saturday (22 November).

Thirty hounds from the Dartmoor hunt found their way onto the tracks between Langham Levels and Fardel Bridge (not pictured). Six of them were then hit by a passing train.

Tom Lyle, joint-master of the Dartmoor, has called it a “distressing and regrettable incident”.

“Nothing like this has ever happened to the hunt before and it was very upsetting to all involved,” he added.

A Network Rail spokesperson confirmed to H&H that at around 12.15pm on Saturday police rung to inform them that 30 unaccompanied hounds were on the line at Ivybridge.

“Sadly, at around the same time a train travelling through the area collided with six of the dogs, all of which died as a result of their injuries,” the spokesman said.

“Our staff attended the site as soon as they were able and worked with police to try and locate the other dogs and remove the remains from the track.”

This is the second fatal incident involving trains this week. On 19 November a group of 12 horses were killed after escaping onto tracks in Cambridgeshire.

The British Transport Police put out an appeal after the incident to try and trace the owner of the horses who had not come forward.

“We are very keen to find out who the horses belong to,” sergeant David Barker said.

“At the moment it is not clear how many horses died in the incident, however, we now believe that at least 12 were killed.

“We just can’t ascertain how the horses got onto the line, there doesn’t seem to have been any obvious access point, but we’re keeping an open mind.

“If anyone has any information, which they think that could help us in our investigations please get in touch.”

Anyone with information about the incident in Cambridgeshire is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference ESUB/B2 of 20/11/14. Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 11.

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A driver whose car collided with a horse in South Yorkshire last month (18 September) has died.

The horse was killed in the accident and the driver was taken to hospital. The 22-year-old had been in intensive care since the crash but police confirmed that he died yesterday (Thursday 2 October).

Police had no details of where the horse had come from or why it was on the road.

The motorist, who has not yet been named, was driving an Audi A4 car when he hit the horse at 6.05am on a road in Askern, a town on the outskirts of Doncaster.

The road was closed in both directions afterwards to enable the recovery work to take place.

The South Yorkshire police are appealing for witnesses to the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting incident number 111 of September 18 2014 or to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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A horse has died during a traffic accident in the West Midlands last week.

A car collided with a horse and cart in Stonnall, near Walsall, on Friday (19 September) seriously injuring the passengers and killing the horse.

Three ambulances from West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to the junction of Chester Road and Lazy Hill just before 8.30pm.

A trauma doctor, paramedics and medics from the Central Accident Resuscitation Emergency (CARE) team also attended the scene.

“Upon arrival crews found a horse-drawn cart and a car which had been involved in a significant collision,” said a spokesman from the ambulance service.

“A young boy, who had been riding the horse at the time of the collision, sustained a serious head injury and abrasions to his body.”

The medics anaesthetised the boy at the scene to stabilise him and he was then taken to Birmingham Childrens’ Hospital.

The 17-year-old girl thrown from the cart had suspected spinal injuries.

She was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, a regional trauma centre, for further emergency treatment.

A man and two-year-old boy in the cart were found to have suffered less serious injuries.

Both were taken to Walsall Manor hospital along with the driver of the car — a man believed to be in his seveneties who had sustained a minor head injury.

The horse was pronounced dead at the scene by an emergency vet.

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Guards Polo Club is set to introduce a rule on polo hats for next season after one of its players has been left in a coma following a serious fall earlier this summer.

From 2015 the club will enforce warnings and fines on any players who fail to wear protective headgear. However, the specific regulations are yet to be confirmed, according to Guards’ chief executive, Neil Hobday.

“We are working to adopt the minimum standard of safety required,” Mr Hobday told H&H. “Collectively as a sport we must take it [hat safety] very seriously indeed. There does not seem to be any pushback from the playing community about it. We wanted to get the process going.”

After the accident involving Brazilian four-goal player Juracy Santos at Guards, H&H polo reporter Aurora Eastwood started a campaign for the sport’s governing body — the Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) — to bring in a blanket ruling. An online petition to change the rule for the 2015 season has received hundreds of signatures.

A safety hat regulation would bring the HPA in line with other equestrian bodies. Safety hats are compulsory for all British Showjumping competitors; British Dressage, except for advanced and above; and for British Eventing, except for dressage and prize-giving at novice and above. Safety hats are already compulsory for polo in the Pony Club.

Last month all four members of the British dressage team competed in crash helmets at the World Equestrian Games.

At present, the HPA enforces the wearing of “protective headgear with the chinstrap or harness correctly fastened” but many players choose to play in “low profile”, single-strap helmets.

The HPA told H&H that the issue of safer headgear is due to be discussed and a decision taken at the stewards meeting in October.

HPA chief executive David Woodd said; “The HPA is surprised to see Guards proposing to follow its own line. The HPA is considering what action it should be taking, bearing in mind its rule will apply to all players in this country and in all countries affiliated to the HPA.

“It’s a big issue: will it also apply to grooms and those umpiring? A decision is needed but it needs to be a very clear decision that makes sense to players.”

➤ To sign the polo safety hat petition visit: http://www.change.org/p/the-hurlingham-polo-association-change-rule-3c-to-insist-upon-safe-helmets-for-the-2015-season

This news story was first published in H&H magazine on 18 September 2014

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A 23-year-old rider and horse have died after being struck by lightning in the USA.

The pair were riding in Mississippi earlier this month (11 July) when the accident happened.

Emergency services found the horse dead and the rider, Shannon Mosley, in cardiac arrest.

Miss Mosley was taken to hospital and then moved to the Mississippi burn centre, where she later died.

US police said there have been cases of horses killed by lightning strikes, but they are rare for humans.

They warned riders who might get caught in a thunderstorms are being warned to stay away from open areas, water and tall, isolated trees and avoid anything that conducts electricity.

Riders are also advised to check weather forecasts before heading out.

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A 51-year-old woman has died after falling off her horse on a beach in Wales. The police confirmed to H&H she was wearing a riding hat at the time.

Emergency coastguard and ambulance services were called out to Llangennith beach at about 8.45am on Sunday (27 July).

South Wales Police were called at 9.11am and the police helicopter recovered the rider’s body.

A spokesman from the police said: “We can confirm the sudden death of a 51-year-old female. The death is not being treated as suspicious. The coroner has been informed.”

Llangennith beach is at the northern end of Rhossili Bay and has been named as one of the best surf beaches in the UK.

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An 11-year-old boy died on Tuesday morning (15 July) as a result of injuries sustained during a riding accident in the grounds of Kirtlington Park, Oxon.

Mehdi Junior — son of Mehdi Mehra, who is a member of Kirtlington polo club — was out riding when his horse bolted and he fell. He was wearing a riding hat at the time.

Despite efforts from doctors and paramedics, Mehdi Junior never regained consciousness.

“Mehdi Junior was starting to show a great interest in polo and was becoming quite a regular at the club,” said a spokesman from Kirtlington Polo Club.

“He was coming to the club on weekends, running around with the other youngsters with his foot mallet.

“He was very popular and well liked; a polite and well-spoken boy whose life ended so early as a result of an awful accident.”

“Our thoughts and prayers must go out to his parents in this very difficult time.”

The funeral for Mehdi Junior took place this morning (17 July).

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A new study has thrown a spotlight on the question of head protection when handling horses on the ground.

Hospital patients admitted as a result of horse accidents during a 5 year period at the University of Kentucky Trauma Registry have revealed that there were equal rates of head injury for both riders and handlers.

All 3 of the deaths recorded were handlers on the ground rather than riders. One was caused by a kick to the head, another a kick to the chest and the third after a fall from a trailer when loading a horse.

As a result of the survey, researchers have concluded the “findings reinforce the need for protective equipment usage at all times around horses”.

Accidents closer to home

The topic was highlighted last week closer to home (28 May) when Irish vet Gerard Long was killed after being kicked in the head while treating a mare in Co Tipperary.

The Irish Health and Safety Authority told H&H that it is investigating the death but a conclusion is expected to take “a number of months”.

There have been several other fatalities from injuries incurred on the ground in Britain in the past couple of years.

In 2011, 16-year-old Lauren Bryant from Scotland died after being found with serious head injuries having gone to catch her horse from its field.

The following October a bank manager suffered fatal head injuries while trying to calm a horse in the back of a lorry.

Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher was also in the news in 2012 after he was kicked in the head when a horse he was leading in at his yard in Essex slipped and fell on him.

The most dangerous times on the ground are considered to be lungeing, leading, loading and turning out. But, despite the horror stories, many riders are still reluctant to wear a hat when dismounted.

“I accept that having and handling horses comes with a level of risk,” said H&H reader Lucinda Waldron. “I’m unlikely to wear my hat all the time on the ground, but I am aware that it’s not always the sensible option.”

“While I always ride with my hat on, I definitely don’t always wear one while working on the ground with my horses,” added another reader.

Rules and regulations

Approved safety hats when mounted are compulsory for British Showjumping competitors, for British Eventing except for dressage and prize-giving at intermediate and above, and at British Dressage except for advanced and above. But there are no regulations referring to handlers on the ground.

In racing it is compulsory for all stalls handlers to wear safety headgear, but not for anyone else helping on the ground. 

There are no specific guidelines for registered farriers or vets about hats.

The Pony Club teaches that wearing a hat when entering a stable, turning out, loading and lungeing is “best practice”, but does not have a blanket policy.

Nor is wearing a hat when not mounted a requirement for many insurance policies for livery yards and riding schools.

“Our insurance has no requirement saying that hard hats must be worn while handling horses or on the ground around horses,” said Kathryn Herring from South Essex Insurance Brokers (SEIB). “We do however encourage the wearing of hard hats.

“We would also advise clients to carry out risk assessments to include where they feel it necessary to make people wear hard hats on the ground.”

Too hard to enforce? 

A spokesman from the Pony Club told H&H that there is no “over arching rule” because “given the scale of the membership it would be un-enforceable”.

Ms Herring told H&H that some of her clients suggest that it would not be safe to make employees wear hard hats all day in the summer because of the risk of fainting.

But despite the concerns raised, some in the equestrian industry say they would be happy to wear their hats more often. 

“I wouldn’t have a problem if an employer asked me to wear my hat when on the ground,” said H&H reader Jessica Fardoe. “I think it’s just a good safety precaution -— especially if you’re on a yard with fit and often unpredictable competition horses.”

Instructor Danielle Dawson said: “I make all the Pony Club kids wear them at all times doing horse care. I don’t think that it is health and safety gone mad.”

What do you think about wearing head protection on the ground? Write to us at hhletters@ipcmedia.com

First published in Horse & Hound magazine (5 June 2014 issue)

Argentine polo player Javier Novillo Astrada (pictured white shirt) has died after a long battle with a terminal illness. He was 37.

The father of 4 was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2009, but made a remarkable recovery to compete in the 2012 Argentinian Triple Crown. Javier was forced to stop playing polo last year and passed away in Buenos Aires last week (Friday 23 May).

Javier, who is 1 of 5 brothers who play polo, had won every major tournament across the world.

In 2008 and he was named coach of the England polo team who went on to win the Coronation Cup and the Westchester Cup under his guidance.

A spokesman from the Argentine Polo Association said that Javier had left an “indelible mark” on the sport and all who had known him.

Javier is the 2nd high-profile loss to the polo community this year. Carlos Gracida died from serious head injuries sustained in freak accident during a match in Florida in February.

Players took to social media to pay their respects to Javier.

“Another polo legend leaves us. Rest in Peace” tweeted former England U21 captain Richard Le Poer.

“Very sad news about Javier,” polo commentator Peter West added. “A great player and England coach”.

Javier leaves behind his wife Delfina, and 4 children — Manuel, Simon, Nina and Clara.

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A pony owned by racehorse trainer Brian Meehan and 2 people have died following a crash on the M11 last week (15 May).

4 other horses from Brian Meehan’s Wiltshire yard were also involved in the fatal accident.

3 cars, a lorry and and the horsebox collided in pile-up which happened shortly before 2.15pm between junctions 7 for Harlow, Essex, and 8 for Bishop’s Stortford, Herts.

The racehorses were en route to Newmarket when the accident happened.

A pony on the lorry, called Pistolero, died as a result of the injuries sustained in the crash. Pistolero was used to escort runners to the start.

He was traveling with 3 intended runners for Thursday night’s meeting at Newmarket and another horse that was returning to his owners for a holiday.

The horses were taken to Newmarket Equine Centre for treatment after the accident.

2 of the intended runners remain at the hospital. 1 has serious injuries and the other is expected to return home this week.

The 3rd runner returned to the stables on Friday and the other horse has been allowed to continue his journey home.

Brian said: “It is a very sad day for us. It was a horrific incident on the motorway and we would like to send our sincerest condolences to the families of the people who lost their lives.

“Sadly, we have lost Pistolero, who has been with us for a long time. He came back with Red Rocks when he won the 2006 Breeders Cup Turf for us and he was not only an invaluable help with a number of the horses both here and on the racecourse, he was a great character.

“He was Western-trained and was a treat to ride and the children, in particular, used to love him. He was, without doubt our stable stars, and we shall all miss him greatly.”

The 2 people who died are believed to be a 53-year-old man from the Netherlands and a 45-year-old woman from Kent, who were brother and sister.

Essex police confirmed that the driver of a lorry was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The 49 year old man from Stafford was questioned and later released on police bail until September 15 while enquiries continue.

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A 25-year-old showjumping groom has died following a suspected seizure.

Ben Fox had been a groom to Irish showjumper Mark Dorgan since he was 15 and was head lad at his base in Hampshire.

“He was immensely popular and well-known on the circuit,” Mark told H&H.

“He knew everything there was to know about horses.

“For someone to stay with you for 10 years is practically unheard of these days.”

“Although Ben was a groom he also rode the horses a bit and jumped at Hickstead last September.

“It had always been a dream of his to jump there.”

Ben is survived by his father Brendan, mother Iris and siblings Katie and Liam.

“It has been a massive shock for everyone but especially hard for his family,” Mark added.

“I would like to extend my condolences to the rest of his family and the huge number of friends, for the most popular, jovial and helpful person I have ever me.”

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A horse was killed in a collision on the M4 in Berkshire this morning after it escaped onto the carriageway.

Emergency services were called to the serious accident involving 5 vehicles near Membury Services at 4.45am this morning (15 January).

Thames Valley Police confirmed to H&H an owner had come forward.

As a result of the accident the M4 had to be closed eastbound between junctions 14, Hungerford, and 15, Swindon East for a short time whilst vehicles were removed.

The driver of a white van, which had overturned, had to be cut free by the fire service and taken to hospital. The driver’s injuries are not thought to have been life-threating and no one else was seriously injured.

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A child has died after being crushed by a horse at the yard of his uncle — leading Scottish showjumper, Alex Barr.

Matthew Young, who was 4, died in hospital of his injuries shortly after the freak accident at Kypehall Farm near Lesmahagow, South Lanarkshire, last Thursday (2 January).

H&H understands that Matthew was standing behind the entrance of the indoor arena watching the horse being loose schooled when it stumbled and fell through the gate onto him. The accident happened in front of his mother, Maggie.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “A postmortem examination will be held in due course to establish the exact cause of death.

“However, the death is not being treated as suspicious.”

Local riders took to social media to express their sadness at Matthew’s death.

One woman wrote: “We’re all pretty shocked up here. Alex and his sister — Matthew’s mum — are regular competitors.

“A lovely family. Just awful and heartbreaking.”

Another woman, Jacqui Broderick, posted: “Such a terrible tragedy — a freak accident, but such a horrible consequence.”

Alex Barr has won the Scottish puissance title and qualified horses for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) at newcomers and Grade C level.

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Horse owners are being warned to be extra vigilant about grass sickness this summer after reports of increased cases for this time of year.

The Equine Grass Sickness Fund (EGSF) told H&H it is receiving calls later than usual, due to the late spring.

“Usually we see a peak in May,” said Kate Thomson from the EGSF. “But this year we’ve had a boom in late June, early July. We’ve had about 10 calls in the past couple of weeks.”

Equine grass sickness is a neurological disease of unknown cause that paralyses the digestive system. More than 95% of cases are fatal.

It can occur in any breed of horse, usually 4-to 5-year-olds and is almost exclusively found in grazing horses.

“We are concerned that many people seem unaware,” added Ms Thomson. “In the UK around 140 deaths from grass sickness are reported each year, but we believe the true number is much higher.”

Alex Ferris-Drake, from West Yorkshire, lost her five-year-old Welsh Section D mare, Maggie, to the disease on 13 July.

“We had never heard of it until she got it, then 48hr later she was dead,” she said. “We need to spread the word.”

Signs are similar to colic and include sweating, a distended stomach and constipation.

“Preventative measures can be taken — ensure the horse has access to hay constantly, plus poo pick manually to make sure nothing disturbs the soil,” said Ms Thomson.

EGSF is appealing for funds to launch a nationwide vaccine trial. Visit: www.grasssickness.org.uk

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (25 July 2013)

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Police are investigating after a 12-week-old puppy was found dead after late night thieves targeted an equestrian property in Poltesco, Cornwall on Saturday, July 6.

It is believed that the thieves killed the puppy to silence it to prevent it from alerting the owners.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall police told H&H: “We are still continuing to investigate but no arrests have been made so far.

“We are still keen to hear from anyone with any information that will lead us to the offenders.

“Additionally anyone with horses and equestrian equipment are urged to consider their own security arrangements and to be vigilant, reporting any suspicious activity to the police.”

The police have also confirmed that nothing was stolen from the property.

Contact Devon and Cornwall police on 0990 777 444, quoting crime reference number GE/13/149, with any information.

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American amateur event rider Christine Brown was killed last Wednesday (10 July) while training at home in Kentucky.

Christine, 44, from Versailles, near Lexington — home of the Rolex Horse Trials — fell while jumping her five-year-old Shire X Hackney, Sammy alone at home.

She severed her spinal column at the C5 vertebrae in her neck upon impact.

A lifelong equestrian and accomplished eventer, Christine, was buried in the purple cross-country colours that she wore aboard her mare, Rivella, with whom she competed to intermediate level.

The Eventing Nation website posted a tribute to Christine, describing her lifelong association with horses.

“Christine served the local eventing community with gusto,” it read. “She was USEA [United States Eventing Association] chairman of Area VIII for several years.

“While she did not have children of her own, Christine spent countless hours trailering aspiring young eventers to competitions, single-handedly helping them accomplish their riding dreams and goals.”

Christine’s close friend, Kathleen Sullivan, told Eventing Nation: “There are probably 20 kids in Area VIII that owe where they are today to Christine stepping up and being like their Mom. She was one of those people who was always there when you needed her.”

An estimated crowd of 1,000 attended the rider’s wake on 13 July.

Her friends and family are hoping to raise $10,000 in order to dedicate a portion of a new horse path at the Kentucky Horse Park — site of the 2010 World Equestrian Games — in her memory.

“Her section will be marked with a special plaque and will overlook part of the cross-country course,” said Kathleen Sullivan.

“This will benefit everyone who ever rides at Rolex in the future, as the Dedicated Horse Path will have good footing that gives the horses and riders a safe way to go between every barn and arena,” she added.

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A coroner has ruled that the young rider, Ella Pallister, died as the result of a “tragic accident”.

Ella, 17, suffered a fatal injury while warming up for a showjumping class at Kingston Maurward Equestrian Centre, Dorset on 27 January. She died three days later.

The inquest into her death on 3 July heard that Ella’s foot became stuck in the stirrup after her horse refused a fence.

PC Hayley Greening, of Dorset Police, investigated the accident. She told the hearing how Ella had jumped the practice fences several times “without incident” and was about to be called into the ring to compete.

“It seems the horse refused the jump. The horse’s head went down low, pulling Ella forward out of the saddle.

“She fell in an unusual position and her left foot stuck in the stirrup, which would have been unlikely, had she been responsive. The horse stood still before walking, trotting and cantering a short distance. The way she was dragged suggested to me she was not responsive.”

PC Greening added: “The horse then kicked out, Ella’s foot came out of the stirrup and she lay on the ground.”

The inquest heard that Ella suffered a fractured skull and a severe brain injury.

Recording a verdict of accidental death, the Dorset coroner, Sheriff Payne said: “It is tragic that a young girl her age came to grief following a sport she loved.

“It would appear that all the appropriate measures were taken. She had the proper experience and knew what to do.”

Ella’s father, Ted Pallister, paid tribute to his “amazing” daughter after the hearing.

“Her Mum and I miss her very badly,” he said.

“I hope this never happens to anybody else.”

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Alison Mountain, breeder of Welsh ponies and cobs and founder of Twyford Stud, died on 24 January. She was 85 and had been ill with pneumonia.

She had bred all four Welsh sections and part-breds, but had recently concentrated on sections A and C, regularly qualifying for Olympia and Horse of the Year Show.

Twyford ponies have formed the foundation of several studs around the world.

Dr Wynne Jones of the Welsh Pony and Cob Society said Mrs Mountain had been a “remarkable woman.”

A memorial service will be held at Twyford on 20 May.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (14 February 2013)

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The Health and Safety Executive is prosecuting the owner of a carriage ride business over the death of a partially sighted woman at a country fair.

Carole Bullett died on 20 June 2011 after being hit by a runaway horse and carriage at Nowton Park in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, the previous day.

Her death was ruled as accidental by a coroner at an inquest last year (news, 18 October 2012).

Now the HSE is taking St Edmundsbury Borough Council, which ran the show, and carriage ride operator Duncan Drye to court.

Each faces one charge under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Both parties are due to appear at Bury St Edmunds Magistrates Court on 7 February.

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A father was kicked to death by his daughter’s horse as they travelled to a showjumping session, an inquest has heard.

Peter McGuire, 51, of Aylesbury Grove, Middleton, Lancs, was driving “Hedgehog” to training at Croft Top Equestrian Centre on 31 October 2012 when the incident happened.

Burnley Coroner’s Court heard yesterday (22 January) that Mr McGuire stopped in a layby to check the gelding and it “freaked out” in the trailer.

His wife Marie told the inquest that the partition had become dislodged and when Mr McGuire approached the 10-year-old horse it broke free and kicked out with both back legs.

He appeared to have broken his leg and Mrs McGuire tried to pull her husband out of the box, but was unable to do so.

She was also kicked in the leg and chest— fracturing her leg — and had to get out of the box for her own safety.

Mrs McGuire heard her husband telling the horse to calm down, then two loud noises and silence.

A vet, firefighters, police and paramedics were called to the scene and Hedgehog had to be sedated before Mr McGuire, who was trapped in the box, could receive treatment.

He died of head injuries at the scene.

Mrs McGuire said her husband was member of Bolton and District Riding Club and was experienced in dealing with horses.

There had been no other problems with Hedgehog’s temperament since they had bought him earlier in the year, she added.

East Lancashire coroner Richard Taylor recorded a verdict of accidental death.

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A man has died after being kicked in the head by a horse in the back of a horsebox.

Police said 51-year-old Peter McGuire from Middleton had been tending to an “agitated horse” when he was fatally injured.

Lancashire Police received a call just before 6pm yesterday (Wednesday 31 October) that a man had been seriously injured. The accident happened in the back of a horsebox on the A56 at Haslingden.

“On attending the scene the man was found to be unconscious with a serious head injury trapped in the rear of the vehicle together with the horse,” said a spokesman for Lancashire Police.

“It transpired that while the vehicle was moving, the horse had become agitated and had dislodged the partition in the rear compartment. When the man entered the horse compartment the horse kicked him, causing fatal injuries.

“His wife subsequently entered the compartment to attempt to assist her husband but was also repeatedly kicked, causing her to retreat.”

The woman sustained chest injuries and a broken femur. The couple’s daughter, who was also present, was unhurt but taken to hospital and treated for shock.

A vet was called to sedate the horse so the man could be treated. It was then taken to a local equestrian centre.

A statement was released by Peter’s family.

“Peter was a loving husband, father and son. He was married to his wife Marie for 27 years and had a son and a daughter.

“Peter was an active member of the Bolton and District Riding Club, with riding being a family hobby for the past eight years. At the time of the accident we were on our way to a jumping practice event in Accrington.

“He has been taken from us in such sudden and tragic circumstances and will be sadly missed by his family, friends and horse community.”

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Derbyshire Police says the deaths of two horses in a field in Ilkeston appear to be suspicious.

Officers were called to a field off Quarry Hill Road on Sunday afternoon after the bodies of the animals were found by a member of the public.

The horses’ owner was contacted and they were removed from the field.

Post mortem examinations will be carried out but the police believe their deaths to be suspicious.

Officers are appealing for witnesses and are urging horse owners in the area to be vigilant.

Anyone with information is urged to call Derbyshire Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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A coroner has asked the Department of Transport to address a lack of regulation surrounding carriage rides, after a grandmother was killed by an out-of-control horse and carriage at a country fair.

Coroner Dr Peter Dean was speaking on 12 October, at the conclusion of a two-week inquest at Bury St Edmunds’ Farmers’ Club into the death of 57-year-old Carole Bullett.

Mrs Bullett, who was partially-sighted, died from serious chest injuries after she was run over by the carriage at Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds, on 19 June 2011.

“The evidence we have heard has highlighted the risks if the activity [the provision of carriage rides] is not regulated properly,” said Dr Dean.

The inquest heard conflicting evidence to explain why four-year-old Breton draft horse, Lucas, bolted.

His owner, Duncan Drye, said Lucas had been well behaved on the day of the incident, but other witnesses described the horse as “agitated”.

British Driving Society president John Parker, who was called as an expert witness, said the rides should have stopped an hour before Lucas bolted, as three of the horses being used for rides had become distressed.

He also said Lucas was too young to have been used in this way and neither Mr Drye nor his groom Sally Tyrell had enough training or experience to provide the rides.

It was also claimed that the horse’s bridle was removed shortly before he bolted.

A spokesman for Mrs Bullett’s family said: “It has been very distressing for them to hear of numerous failings.

“If they had been considered properly beforehand, then

the accident might never have happened.”

The Health and Safety Executive said it would review the case.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (18 October 2012)

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Jack Bowlby, young showing star and nephew of former racehorse trainer Jenny Pitman, has been found dead at school.

His body was discovered on Friday (12 October) in his room at Cheltenham College. The school said he appeared to have taken his own life.

The 16-year-old, from Wantage, Oxon, was successful in showing – competing Welsh ponies and Connemaras – as well as showjumping. He competed at Horse of the Year show earlier this month.

Dr Peterken, Headmaster of Cheltenham College said: “This has been a terrible shock for the whole college, we are a very close-knit boarding community and it has hit us all very hard indeed. A special chapel service has already been held for Jack and our prayers and thoughts go out to his family, friends and peers.”

Simon Conner, housemaster at the school added: “Jack was a top boy; a star pupil of whom we were all very proud. He was a great contributor to college, a fantastic horse rider and this tragedy has come like a bolt out of the blue. We are devastated.”

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A horse died and two people were airlifted to hospital following a collision in Weston Heath, Shropshire yesterday morning (18 September 2012).

The accident, which happened at 10.25am, involved a female rider and her horse, along with three cars. A white Fiat Punto collided with the horse killing it instantly.

The 36-year-old rider is now said to be in a stable condition while the 26-year-old male driver of the car is in a critical condition.

West Mercia Police are appealing for witnesses. If you can help, call PC Simon Barnes on 0300 333 3000.

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Rider, owner and instructor Jean Rodgerson died on 13 August, following an accident near her home in Hough-on-the-Hill, Lincs.

She fell from one of her horses while hacking and suffered head injuries.

Mrs Rodgerson was well known for bringing on young horses and teaching competition riders. She also hunted with the Belvoir.

She leaves her husband Ken and her daughter Alison. Her funeral was on 23 August.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (30 August 2012)

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Investigations are under way after a 13-year-old girl died while competing in a showjumping class at Eglinton Equestrian Centre, Co Londonderry.

Hannah Wiley, from Artigarvan in Co Tyrone, was killed on Friday evening (17 August).

Officials from Derry City Council and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating.

The family’s vicar, the Reverend Mark Russell of Leckpatrick Presbyterian Church, said the local community was shocked by Hannah’s death.

“She was a great child,” he said. “A very quiet girl, so full of fun and energy and very committed to everything she was involved in.”

Eglinton Equestrian Centre did not wish to comment.

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Eventing owners Chris and Lisa Stone are warning others about the risk of horse-walker accidents after four-star event horse Elektron died as a result of “freak and horrific” accident at their yard last Monday, 9 July.

In a statement released to H&H, the Stones write: “As part of the normal daily routine, Elektron was put on the horse-walker before being worked. Somehow he got his head stuck in the gap between the two pusher partitions, and his neck wedged in the tiny gap between the partitions and the outside cage wall.

“By chance, our vet was already at the yard doing other routine work, but was unable to save him, and Elektron died due to a fracture of the cervical vertebrae.

“The team here is devastated, and we are making this statement to warn others of this highly unlikely, but still real, risk.”

Elektron, a 12-year-old by Esteban, was produced to four-star level by Nick Gauntlett, finishing 28th at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials last year (pictured).

He moved to Paul Tapner’s yard last year, but suffered a bone injury to a knee joint while cross-country schooling, so Paul never competed him.

This year the grey had been evented by Gemma Tattersall, who is based at the Stones’ yard.

Chris and Lisa Stone also own the four-star stallion Chilli Morning, who won the Equi-Trek Bramham Horse Trials CCI*** this year with William Fox-Pitt.

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The Leicestershire equestrian and hunting community is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden death of event rider Jo Lomas, aged 49.

A natural and accomplished rider with a warm, out-going personality, Mrs Lomas was found collapsed with a severe chest injury in the paddock at her home at Pickwell, Melton Mowbray on Thursday 5 July.

It is believed she had just turned out two horses into the field, and may have been kicked inadvertently. The air ambulance was called, but paramedics confirmed death had taken place. A post mortem was due to take place today (Monday 9 July).

Jo married Mark Lomas QC two years ago and they were both keen members of the Cottesmore hunt.

Having previously represented Britain at Young Rider level, Jo resumed eventing recently and she had qualified for the Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials next spring.

Brought up in Derbyshire, Jo Lomas (nee Wigglesworth) began eventing in the Meynell and South Staffs Pony Club. She came second on her mare Magenta in the Pony Club eventing championships, before going on to compete in the European Young Rider championships at Burghley in 1983.

Mrs Lomas is survived by her married daughter Harriet Herbert, who is also an event rider, and two sons, Freddie and Jack, from her first marriage to Richard Allen.

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Olympic medal-winning eventer Amy Tryon died of an accidental overdose, a coroner has revealed.

The US rider, who won team gold medal at the World Games in Jerez in 2002 and team bronze at the 2004 Athens Games, died on 12 April, aged 42.

The King County Medical Examiner’s Office released her cause of death yesterday, as an “acute combined opiate” overdose.

Her death in her sleep was an accident, the medical examiner ruled.

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Trainer Lucinda Russell has spoken of her “devastation” at the loss of the exciting young hurdler, Brindisi Breeze – who has been killed in a freak accident.

The six-year-old jumped out of his paddock at Lucinda’s Kinross yard in the early hours of Saturday (19 May) and was hit by an oil tanker.

He died instantly.

Brindisi Breeze became the first Scottish-trained Cheltenham winner for 10 years in March, when he trounced the field in the Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle.

In a statement on her website, Lucinda said: “To go from the pride of standing at Cheltenham watching Brindisi and Campbell [Gillies] stride up the hill to victory to the devastation of today’s bizarre incident leaves me deeply saddened.

“With the love and the care that is given to these wonderful athletes, to lose any of them is difficult but when it is a horse who has achieved so much in his short life, it is deeply upsetting.

“It will be hard to overcome,” she added.

Lucinda continued: “He will be sorely missed by the whole yard and especially his sporting owner, Sandy Seymour, who adored his horse.”

Mr Seymour said of “Brin”:

“He had already, in his tragically short career, formed a huge fan club and had become one of those special athletes who instantly capture the attention of the public.”

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An inquest has heard how a woman was killed when her horse stumbled down a bank on Exmoor on Boxing Day.

Fiona Warstat, of Minehead, Somerset, was hacking with her friend, Claire Rumary near Porlock when the accident happened, the inquest at Taunton was told yesterday (9 May).

The coroner’s court heard that Mrs Warstat, 48 was an “excellent” rider with more than 30 year’s experience.

“All of a sudden her horse lurched to the right,” said Ms Rumary.

She added that both horses were going “fairly slowly” and it was not clear why Mrs Warstat’s horse behaved as it did.

Ms Rumary’s horse was spooked by the accident. When she had regained control, she saw her friend several metres down the slope against the base of a tree.

She tried to call emergency services but was unable to get a signal, so ran to cottages at a nearby farm to get help.

The inquest heard that Devon and Somerset Air Ambulance found landing challenging due to the terrain and low cloud, but nothing could have saved Mrs Warstat.

She died from a brain injury, despite wearing a hard hat which was still on after the accident.

Mrs Warstat’s husband, Stuart, told the hearing: “I have every confidence in her riding ability,” and thanked Ms Rumary, the air ambulance and the people at the farm.

West Somerset coroner Michael Rose said: “I think it would have been impossible for anyone, the most experienced rider, to control that horse.”

He recorded a verdict of accidental death.

Mrs Warstat, an expert on the behaviour and training of dogs, leaves her husband and two teenage children.

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Olympic medal-winning eventer Amy Tryon died in her sleep yesterday (12 April).

The American, who won a team gold medal from the World Games in Jerez in 2002, bronze in the team eventing at the 2004 Athens Games and also was on the US team for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, was just 42.

According to Eventingnation Amy, who lived in Duvall, Washington State, had most recently competed at the Galway Downs International Horse Trials (March 30 -1 April).

Amy trained as a firefighter but retired in 2006 in order to concentrate on riding.

The following year she caused headlines after her horse was injured at the Rolex Kentucky Horse Trials.

She is survived by her husband of 16 years, Greg Tryon.

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The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) is holding a routine review into the deaths of five horses in two days of racing at the Cheltenham Festival.

On Tuesday, the opening day of the festival, three horses – Garde Champetre, Scotsirish and Educated Evans – had to be destroyed.

Then yesterday, Wednesday, Abergavenny and Featherbed Lane both broke legs during the Coral Cup.

And Wishfull Thinking fell in the Queen Mother Champion Chase, rolling under the rails and into a crowd of photographers, but was reported to be uninjured.

Robin Mounsey of the BHA said: “Racing carries risks. No one wants to see valuable and valued racehorses injured so it is regrettable that several horses have now suffered accidents where the injury was not treatable and so euthanasia was the proper and humane option.

“As with every equine injury or fatality, detailed data will be collated by the BHA, examining the type of injury in question and the context in which it took place.

“Racecourses, trainers and the sport’s regulator are not complacent about these risks and recognise there is always more to do,including both on-going improvements and scientific research, to further reduce these risks.”

And Roly Owers of World Horse Welfare, which is an advisor to the BHA, said: “We will be monitoring the investigations into what happened, and look at the findings and the circumstances around each fatality – including the state of the ground.

“This isn’t just about Cheltenham – there are many thousands of races each year and with drought conditions in much of the country we believe it could be beneficial to review again what stage the going is considered safe.”

One horse died during the Cheltenham Festival meeting last year.

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A veteran showjumper has died following a fall at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida.

Donald V. Little died yesterday (29 February) from injuries sustained on 26 February when his horse fell jumping a fence during the Masters Classic in the International Arena.

It is thought that Mr Little – who was in his late 70s – injured his neck after his horse, Superiur, stumbled at a jump.

Mr Little, of Ipswich, Massachusetts, had come third in the Masters Jumper 50 & older veterans’ class the day before on his horse Mr Nightime. He was a longtime competitor at Wellington.

His wife of 57 years, Judy, said: “I will miss him so much.

“Donald died doing what he loved. He was loved and respected by so many people, including his fellow competitors and team members in polo, hunting, showjumping and racing as well as other aspects of his life.”

Mr Little, a senior vice president of investment bank UBS, was master of the Myopia Hunt in Massachusetts and a former captain of the Myopia polo club.

The Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington lasts for three months and includes lower level classes as well as top-level showjumping.

British showjumpers – including Nick Skelton and Ben Maher – have won a number of classes.

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