A Kent-based horse riding star has died aged 37 after suffering a fall in a cross-country event.

Georgie Campbell, from Lamberhurst near Tunbridge Wells, was competing in the Bicton International Trials in Devon on Sunday.

The professional event rider and her horse Global Quest fell into water at a fence on the course on the final day of the meeting.

Campbell, who has competed in more than 200 events, could not be saved despite the efforts of medics.

Governing body British Eventing said in a statement: "It is with deepest regret we announce that Georgie Campbell suffered a fatal accident while competing at the Bicton International Horse Trials in Devon.

"Medical professionals attended immediately following her fall at fence 5b however, unfortunately, she could not be saved.

"The horse, Global Quest, was assessed by the on-site vets and walked back to the stable and is uninjured.

"To respect the family’s privacy at this extremely difficult and sad time, no further details will be shared."

An air ambulance and hazardous area response team were among the emergency services sent to the scene just after 3pm.

Campbell married fellow event rider Jesse Campbell, who competes for New Zealand, in 2020.

The pair set up Team Campbell Eventing, an equestrian business based near Lamberhurst.

Scores of tributes have been paid online, with many describing Campbell as highly talented.

“A beautiful lady and remarkable rider…”

Former Folkestone Racecourse manager Emma Santer shared a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

She said: “Such tragic news. Georgie was a great rider and a great friend to many! Thoughts are with her family, friends and wider eventing family.”

Julia Norton added: “A beautiful lady and remarkable rider. I bought my horse of a lifetime from her.”

Campbell was initially a top-level showing rider before turning to eventing.

She represented Great Britain numerous times on Nations Cup teams and appeared at several five-star events, the highest recognised level of eventing.

In an interview last year, she cited winning the 4* Long in 2022 at Lignieres in France on Global Quest as a career highlight.