HORSE rider Emily Gilruth is currently "under sedation" at Southmead Hospital after suffering a traumatic brain injury at the Badminton Horse Trials this weekend.

Emily, who lives in Cheshire, fell from her horse at the third fence during a race on Saturday, May 6, and was later airlifted to Bristol's Southmead Hospital.

Doctors say that they are "pleased with her progress" so far and that she has had a "steady night" whilst remaining under sedation.

Emily's family have released a public statement saying that they "would like to thank all the many well-wishes for the lovely supportive messages that they have received."

A spokesman for the Badmintion Horse Trials said: "We would like to say a huge thank you to Badminton’s medical team, for their efficient and very caring service, also to the staff in the intensive care unit at Southmead.

"We ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this time."