Silence planned for horse rider who died after fall

Ms Yorke was competing at Aston-le-Walls Equestrian Centre when she died

Two-minute silences are being planned at equestrian events across the country to remember a horse rider who died after a fall at a competition.

Sarah Yorke, who was 37 and from Powys in Wales, fell at the third fence during a round at the Aston-le-Walls Horse Trials in Northamptonshire.

The sport's governing body, British Eventing, said Ms Yorke's death had "brought great sorrow to all who had the privilege of knowing her".

The school where Ms Yorke was a teacher said she was a "much-loved and highly-respected colleague and friend".

The meeting at the Equestrian Centre in Aston-le-Walls was abandoned after the accident on Friday.

British Eventing said medical professionals had immediately attended to Ms Yorke after she fell from her horse, MGH Hera, but she died from her injuries.

The horse was checked by a vet and was unharmed.

British Eventing said: "The tragic loss has brought great sorrow to all who had the privilege of knowing her, and our heartfelt thoughts remain with her family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"As a community, we will take a moment this weekend to stand together in quiet reflection for Sarah.

"We ask members and supporters, whether attending an event or at home, to join us at 12:00 BST on Saturday 16 August in pausing for two minutes to remember her life and to send thoughts and prayers to her family and friends."

The organisation added that its 24-hour helpline was available for "anyone who has been affected by this tragedy".

Ms Yorke was a teacher at Norbury and Stiperstones Primary School in Shropshire

Shropshire Council said Ms Yorke taught at two primary schools in their county and another in Powys.

The Shropshire Hills Federation, which runs Chirbury and Norbury schools where Ms Yorke worked, said: "Sarah was an inspirational teacher who was always full of energy and life.

"She shared her love of learning, and in particular sport, with every child and over many years she had such a positive impact on many children and adults alike.

"She was always passionate about encouraging children to be the best that they could be in everything that they did but would also make time throughout each day to ensure that children had the opportunity for fun, play and laughter."

British Eventing said a full review into the incident would be undertaken "in line with our established protocols".