THE Irish equestrian community remains deeply shocked and saddened after a tragic accident claimed the life of horse riding enthusiast Heather Hewitt (née Campbell) last Thursday.

Married to her loving husband Kieran and the mother of Beth, Heather is also survived by her devastated parents Clive and Tracy, her sister Andrea, and stepchildren Conor, Jack and Millie, along with extended family and friends.

The tragedy occurred as Heather, of Knockanarra, Williamstown, North Galway, was mounting a horse at Glenamaddy Equestrian Centre.

Emergency services were quickly on the scene but very tragically, the rider was pronounced dead a short time later.

A post-mortem was carried out at Galway University Hospital and Gardaí and the Health and Safety Authority are carrying out investigations in all the circumstances of this fatal accident.

Originally from Crowborough, East Sussex, Heather’s funeral will take place there at a later date.

Tributes

As the treasurer of local Glenway Riding Club, Heather also had many friends in the riding club movement. The Burren Riding Club show was postponed as a mark of respect.

A spokesperson for the Western region of the Association of Irish Riding Clubs said online: “Our hearts shocked and saddened on hearing of the untimely passing of Glenway Riding Club member, Heather Hewitt.

“On behalf of AIRC West Regional Committee, may we express our sincerest condolences to Heather’s family, friends and fellow club members.

“Our thoughts are with you all and we would like you to know that we are here to support you in any way.”

Today (Saturday, April 15th), there will be an opportunity for Heather’s Irish friends to call to Smyth’s Funeral House, Roscommon (F42 NH27) to meet and chat with Kieran and Beth from 2pm - 3pm.

Ms Hewitt’s devastated family said they would like to convey their “gratitude to those who helped following the accident and also to everyone for their kindness and support at this time”.

The Irish Field extends its deepest condolences to Heather’s family and many friends at this most difficult time.