"The hospital admission rate associated with horse-riding injuries is 0.49 per 1,000 hours, compared to a rate of 0.14 per 1,000 hours of motorcycle riding, according to the research.

Among those treated for traumatic equestrian injuries, only 9 per cent had been wearing a helmet. Thirty-one per cent wore other protective equipment, such as Kevlar vests.

Almost half of all riders who were seriously injured (48 per cent) suffered head injuries, and 54 per cent suffered chest injuries. Most riders were hurt by falling or being thrown from the horse, followed by being stomped or kicked.

In Western riding there is a tradition of wearing a cowboy hat rather than a helmet. In English riding, a helmet is the norm."

oh dear.

Dressage comp tomorrow too...