A HORSE rider was airlifted to hospital after being injured in a fall during a competitive event.

Rachel Spensley, 28, was one of around 100 riders taking part in the Catterick Garrison Saddle Club spring hunter trial at Scotton today.

At about 10.30am she lost her stirrup on the sixth jump and as a result was slightly unseated for the seventh.

As her mount Ryan carried on into the woodland part of the course she hit a tree and fell to the ground.

A spectator and fence judge were first on the scene and they radioed for paramedics.

Because of a suspected pelvic injury the air ambulance was called to the course to airlift Mrs Spensley to the James Cook hospital in Middlesbrough.

However she was later discharged after treatment. No bones were broken and she suffered bruising.

Club manager Michelle Slinger said: "Rachel is quite experienced and so is Ryan but they are a new partnership. I’m sure she will be back in action as soon as possible."

Ryan, who is liveried at the club, was unhurt in the incident - and after it happened made his own way back to his stable.