A STRAPPED-for-cash horse lover is galloping for joy after an appeal through the Shuttle/Times and News brought her more than £2,000 in sponsorship.

Jayne Tilsley, from Bewdley, was handed the cash boost after her courageous story won the hearts of readers throughout Wyre Forest.

The 32-year-old rider scooped a top showjumping award last month after battling back from a series of horrific injuries suffered during her career.

Her inspiring story reached Cleobury Mortimer businessman Ben Carpenter, who decided to put some financial muscle behind Miss Tilsley's love of the sport.

He said: "I saw the story and thought she was clearly a talented girl who needed some help.

"The money should cover at least one horse for a tournament and go towards the entry fees."

Horse-mad Miss Tilsley, of Long Bank, broke her eye socket, wrist and feet over three years spent working with her horses.

Now back in the saddle, she said the donation of £2,400, through Mr Carpenter's firm Lee Brothers, would help in her bid for sporting glory.

Last month she rode away with the Stuart Crutchlow Memorial Class prize at the Weston Lawns Equestrian Centre in Coventry.

She said: "The money will help me go to shows away from home. I have four horses so it is very expensive, especially when I have to stay overnight.

"I am very grateful to Ben for helping me out."