A horse racing team sponsored a race in honour of a former yard worker who died following a horse-related incident.

Claire Dyson Racing and Rehabilitation, based in Cleeve Prior, Worcestershire, sponsored a recent race at Stratford Racecourse in memory of Charlotte Cole, former head girl for the yard.

In 2011 Miss Cole, who was from Droitwich, was crushed by her horse in Evesham before being airlifted to hospital by Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, where she later died.

This is the 11th year the team has sponsored a race to help raise funds and awareness for the charity that helped Miss Cole, who passed away at just 23-years-old.

The organisation has connections with the area's equestrian community due to its swift service and advanced care for horse-riding accidents in the region on a weekly basis.

Miss Cole's parents, Roger and Diane, attended the race day along with two of the charity’s critical care paramedics, Julian Spiers and Karen Baker.

The race day, together with a second event hosted by Claire Dyson in November, raised £6,000.

Funds will enable the charity to complete an air ambulance mission and ten further missions using the critical care cars, providing advanced care to those in need.

Claire Dyson said: "Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is an organisation close to my heart and one I have supported for more than a decade.

"I am so pleased we have been able to raise a further £6,000 for the organisation.

"I would like to thank everyone who attended the day and supporting our fundraising activities.”

Hanna Sebright, chief executive for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, added: "The equestrian community is one of our most supportive groups.

"Claire Dyson and her team have always been steadfast supporters of our vital service and we are exceptionally grateful for their ongoing fundraising support during 2023."