Rider badly hurt after horse attacked with stones

Now police want to track down the stone throwers and are asking for witnesses.

The 28-year-old Thurcroft woman, who has not been named, fell from her horse on a track near Duke of Norfolk Lane in Wickersley.

The youths threw stones at the large white horse she was riding, causing it to rear up and throw the woman to the ground.

She was treated by paramedics and taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The incident happened at about 5.45pm on May 17.

On May 19, the woman was allowed home but was readmitted to hospital the next day after suffering headaches.

She was later transferred to the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield where she underwent surgery and remains in a critical condition.

Police are now hunting for the youths and have carried out enquiries in the Wickersley area.

Det Insp Steve Ashmore, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “We are urging anyone who might have seen what happened or who has any information about the incident to come forward.

“We’re also interested in hearing from anyone who has suffered similar problems in the area and will be visiting local stables.

“This incident shows the serious consequences of anti-social behaviour.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact South Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 1204 of May 17, or they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.