Carriage and horse organizers fined over 2012 death of Angharad Rees

Adam Farrer, prosecuting, told the court Miss Rees used her own horse, Magic, and a carriage owned by her groom.

“The prosecution alleges that the accident was caused by a series of failures in the organization and management of the security of the event,” Mr Farrer said.

“This was Angharad's first participation in such an event. Angharad's life revolved around horses and she was an experienced rider and had confidence in her horse, Magic.”

The court heard the accident happened when his horse and trap turned right and went down a steep, narrow track.

“During the journey, and within 47 meters of turning right onto the track, Angharad lost control of the trap, causing it to tip over,” Mr Farrer said.

“Very unfortunately, Angharad's head hit a tree, causing her serious head injuries from which she sadly died later that day.”

Mr Farrer said equipment used at the event had not been inspected by organizers before the competition and participants were not required to wear safety equipment.

“Participants were allowed to choose whether or not to wear such equipment. On the day of the event it was very hot and Angharad chose not to wear a helmet.”

Experts commissioned by the prosecution said the route was not suitable for carriage driving and was dangerous because it was too narrow and too steep, the court heard.

“The prosecution's case is that the evidence demonstrates significant failings on the part of the British Driving Society and that the use of the track made the event route unsafe, particularly as the event was described as a fun day with inexperienced participants,” he said.

The court heard the event was organized by a local riding club affiliated to the British Driving Society, which no longer exists.

At a previous hearing, the British Driving Society pleaded guilty to four breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Mark Harris, defending, said three directors of the organization were in court out of “respect” for the legal process.

“BDS, as an organization, had no real opportunity to change or amend the arrangements in place or to impose its own normal standards, those that have allowed it to be a flawless organization throughout its existence, except for this one occasion,” he said. .

Judge Geraint Walters imposed a fine of £90,000 and ordered the British Driving Society to pay costs of £140,000.

He said the investigation into the incident revealed a “casual approach to formality”.