During a hacking ride on Aylesbeare Common, Caroline experienced a heavy fall when her Clydesdale horse bolted and bucked, throwing her onto a rough track. Injured with a fractured shoulder socket and severe hip bruising, she was quickly attended by Devon Air Ambulance’s Exeter-based helicopter crew, who arrived within minutes. The specialist paramedic team stabilized her at the scene before airlifting her to the Royal Devon & Exeter hospital. Caroline praised the crew’s professionalism and care, highlighting their support even after the incident, and expressed gratitude for the vital service they provide.

This incident is shared during Air Ambulance Week (8-12 September 2025), which raises awareness and funds for the UK’s 37 air ambulance helicopters operated by 21 charities. These services respond to over 48,000 missions annually, including more than 600 horse riding incidents in 2024, with each mission costing an average of £4,163 and relying entirely on donations. Caroline’s story underscores the importance of community support for these life-saving services.