Horsewoman wins negligence case

A horsewoman from Wales has won £37,000 in damages after been thrown from her animal.

Penarth's Downside Riding School was found guilty for the negligent riding of their employee, Stephen Davies, who caused Ceri Tonkinson to sustain back injuries after her newly broken-in horse reared up.

Ms Tonkinson had asked Mr Davies to wait to overtake while she settled her horse, but he proceeded to overtake anyway, which scared the animal.

The incident put an end to Ms Tonkinson's competitive riding career, as she can now no longer ride for very long because of the lasting effects of breaking her back and pelvis.

Speaking after the hearing, Ms Tonkinson stated: "My friends and I had witnessed and experienced inconsiderate and, in my opinion, dangerous riding by riders from that riding school, and particularly Mr Davies."

Like other businesses, equestrian companies must make risk assessments and ensure that all workers follow strict health and safety codes.

Published by Kevin Round