British rider Emily Gilruth suffered what has been described as a traumatic brain injury after falling during the cross-country phase of this year’s Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

A statement released by British Eventing on Monday said 40-year-old Gilruth “had a stable night and remains under sedation” in hospital.

Gilruth, who is based near Malpas in Cheshire, fell from her ride Topwood Beau at the third fence on Saturday.

British Eventing said: “Emily’s family would like to thank all the many well-wishers for the lovely supportive messages that they have received.

“Emily suffered a TBI (traumatic brain injury) when falling from her horse at the third fence at the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials on Saturday, May 6. She was airlifted to Bristol’s Southmead hospital.

“The doctors are pleased with her progress. She has had a stable night and remains under sedation.

“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. We will continue to release updates as and when further information is made available.”

Topwood Beau, a 14-year-old gelding, was uninjured in the fall, which happened at the Keepers Question obstacle.

Gilruth, who is married with two young daughters, made her Badminton debut in last year’s event. She has competed in British Eventing competitions for 18 years, and runs her own yard.