A female rider in her 30s sustained serious injuries after her horse was spooked by a speeding van on Lower Woodrow Road in Melksham. The incident occurred at around 9:30am on 31 July as the rider was leaving an equestrian lodge.
According to Wiltshire Police, the van travelled at speed along the road and caused the horse to become startled, resulting in the rider being thrown from the animal. Following the fall, the horse accidentally stood on the rider, exacerbating her injuries.
The police have issued an appeal for information from anyone who witnessed the event or who may have dash cam footage of the van involved. The vehicle is described as white with brown markings on the side.
READ MORE: M5 Delays Following Crash Near Tiverton
In their official statement, Wiltshire Police emphasised the importance of road users passing horses carefully and respectfully. They urge drivers to give horses at least a two-metre clearance, reduce their speed to no more than 10mph, and pass wide and slow to ensure the safety of riders and horses alike.
Anyone able to assist with information is asked to contact PC Hosken via email at [email protected], quoting reference number 54260097384.