Veteran Rider’s Cause of Death Revealed 8 Months After Fatal Horse Accident: ‘We Will Never Forget Him’

Veteran Rider’s Cause of Death Revealed After Fatal Horse Accident

A cause of death has been determined for Guy Avis, a veteran horse rider from Oxfordshire, who tragically passed away following a horseback riding incident during a hunting activity. The Gloucestershire coroner has disclosed that Mr. Avis, aged 76, succumbed to injuries sustained after falling from his horse while engaging in the Heythrop Hunt foxhound event near Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire in November 2024.

According to reports, on November 2, 2024, Mr. Avis suffered fatal injuries when he fell from his horse at the farm where the event took place. The area coroner for Gloucestershire, Roland Wooderson, confirmed the details of the tragic incident. Avis, who had been an integral part of the local hunting community, was well-known for his passion for the sport and his longstanding involvement.

The British Hound Sports Association expressed their deep sorrow over the sudden loss of Guy Avis, also known as ‘the Singing Secretary’ of the Heythrop, a position he had held for nearly three decades. Having been an avid hunter for over 60 years, Avis was described as a beloved figure within the community. The association extended their heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Witnesses at the event, including Hannah Goffe, recounted the harrowing moment when Avis fell from his horse. Despite immediate efforts to revive him, Avis unfortunately succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The health and safety officer affirmed that Avis, a seasoned rider, was well-equipped and trained for the sport, underscoring the unforeseeable nature of the accident.

The funeral service for Guy Avis was held on December 10, 2024, as friends, family, and fellow hunters bid farewell to a cherished member of the community. The Heythrop Hunt Club paid tribute to Avis on social media, reminiscing about his dedication to the sport and his vibrant personality. The heartfelt post honoured his memory and the enduring impact he had on those who knew him.

Described as a cornerstone of the Heythrop Hunt, Guy Avis’s legacy as a skilled rider and a beloved individual lives on in the hearts of those who shared in his passion for hunting. His unwavering love for the sport, his camaraderie, and his infectious spirit will forever be remembered by the community. The solemn reminder of the risks inherent in equestrian pursuits underscores the importance of safety precautions and vigilance during such activities.

As the hunting community mourns the loss of a respected member, the memory of Guy Avis will continue to resonate throughout the rolling hills and fields where he once rode. In honour of his legacy, fellow riders and friends reflect on his enduring contributions to the sport and the camaraderie he fostered among enthusiasts. Guy Avis’s untimely passing serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks intertwined with the noble pursuit of equestrian endeavours.