A 22-year-old “accomplished” event rider from the Highlands has died in a tragic incident on the gallops at a stable in the Scottish borders.
Horsewoman and work-rider Natasha Galpin, from Laggan, suffered fatal injuries after the horse she was riding suffered from a ruptured artery on Tuesday.
Miss Galpin, who was also a livery owner in her own right, had competed in British Eventing since 2010, and rode various horses in competitions throughout the UK.
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Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident at the Hetland Hill yard in Carrutherstown. The Health and Safety Executive has said it was making inquiries.
A statement from Miss Galpin’s employer, Iain Jardine, said: “It is with great sadness that the team at Iain Jardine Racing wish to report that we suffered a tragic accident on our grass gallops on Tuesday morning, which has resulted in the untimely death of a member of our team, Natasha Galpin 22, as well as the loss of a horse.
“Our main priority throughout has been Natasha and the rest of our staff, who are distraught at the loss of a colleague and friend but have been extremely supportive of each other.
“As a team here, we are doing our best to get through and cope with this devastating situation.
“Natasha was an experienced and valued, full-time member of Team IJR. She was an accomplished event rider and ran her own livery yard. She worked alongside her boyfriend Olyn Sayer.
“Sadly, our horse suffered gutteral pouch mycosis, a ruptured artery, during work, resulting in the unavoidable and unpredictable accident. He was given all the necessary care and treatment required and the owners were immediately informed.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Natasha’s parents and sisters at this very sad time.”
The British Horseracing Authority’s chief executive Nick Rust said his “deepest sympathies” were with Miss Galpin’s family and friends.
He said: “While such incidents are extremely rare, there is an element of risk every time a rider sits on any horse and as such we should never take for granted the bravery and commitment of our workforce. Our sport relies on their dedication in providing first class care for our horses, and we are grateful to them all.
“We will work with the authorities and provide support to the yard at this difficult time.”