A TAVISTOCK woman who survived a serious horse-riding accident last year this week presented a cheque to the team which played a part in saving her life.

Kathryn Bellard was taken to Derriford Hospital last November by Devon Air Ambulance after she fell from her horse at Coryton.

She sustained severe brain damage in the fall and spent two weeks unconscious. After weeks in intensive care Kathryn was transferred to the Rowans Unit at Derriford, where she fought to regain memory, speech and co-ordination.

She finally left hospital after eight months, and almost a year after her accident has started a gradual return to work.

Kathryn is an enthusiastic supporter of Devon and Cornwall Mink Hounds, who made a collection for the air ambulance in appreciation of its role following Kathryn?s accident.

Kathryn presented the cheque for £146 to Mike Howard of the Devon Air Ambulance Trust at a social lunch of the Mink Hunt at the Royal Inn at Horsebridge on Sunday.