Teenage girl dies after falling while jumping at home

A 14-year-old schoolgirl has died after falling from her horse while jumping at her father’s yard in Quegley, near Gloucester.

Reports suggest that when Charlotte James fell, the horse she was riding trod on her chest as she lay on the ground.

A spokesman for Gloucester coroner Alan Crickmore said her grief-stricken father, Simon James, has identified Charlotte’s body. A post-mortem was carried out.

“The cause of death has been given as a severe chest injury,” said the spokesman.

Peter Rowland, headteacher of Severn Vale comprehensive school, where Charlotte was a pupil, told press: “Charlotte was a model student who was admired and respected by her fellow pupils and staff. Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time.”

The coroner confirmed an inquest has been opened and adjourned for at least six months to allow a full investigation.

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