A TEN-year-old girl who was seriously injured during an equestrian event has been released from hospital to continue her recovery at home.

Katie Benbow fractured her skull when her pony, Rosie, tripped and fell on top of her while she was riding at the Richmond Equestrian Centre, in North Yorkshire, on Friday.

Katie was flown to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, by the Great North Air Ambulance in a serious condition, but has now been released after pleasing doctors with her recovery.

Although she must wear a neck brace and have two weeks of rest, Katie’s father Simon Benbow said the family is delighted to have her home at Whitley Bridge, near Selby, North Yorkshire.

He said: "We are absolutely delighted because to be home. She is very happy indeed.

"She’s been itching to get out of hospital since Sunday. She got really bad on Monday and I think if she had been told to stay in another day she would have murdered me."

Katie was left unconscious for more than a minute after being knocked out by Rosie’s fall, which has been described as a freak accident.

Both Mr Benbow and his wife, Lisa, have thanked the medical staff who worked to save their daughter.

Mrs Benbow said: "We couldn’t thank the people who helped any more. From the incident happening to her leaving hospital, everyone’s been incredible."

To support the Great North Air Ambulance Service call 01325-487263.