Man Thanks Air Ambulance Following Horse Training Accident That Caused Eight Broken Ribs

A man who sustained severe injuries, including eight fractured ribs, after being crushed by a horse he was training, has expressed his appreciation to the air ambulance crew for their “incredible care.” Joe Billingham, 34, was exercising a horse named Lolli in an outdoor riding arena at Windmill Farm, located in Beckwithshaw, near Harrogate, when the animal unexpectedly reared. He was left in intense pain, unable to move or feel his legs, and struggling to breathe. Mr. Billingham will recount the “frightening experience” and the care provided by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) critical care team in an upcoming episode of Yorkshire Air 999, which will air on the Quest channel. “As a horse rider, you never think these things will happen to you,” he stated. He added, “I’ve ridden horses for three decades, but it all happened so quickly.” Mr. Billingham further remarked, “I can’t thank the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team enough for the incredible care they gave me that day – they made a frightening experience so much more manageable.” He explained that after the initial rearing, he attempted to calm the horse using a gentle vocal cue. However, she reared again and lost her balance, subsequently falling backward and crushing Mr. Billingham. After concerned onlookers called emergency services, YAA paramedics Leanne and Terri-Ann arrived to join land paramedics in treating him. They also took precautions to ensure their helicopter’s presence did not frighten the animals at the farm. Terri-Ann commented, “Horse-related incidents can cause a range of injuries, from broken bones to serious crush injuries.” She further noted, “Helicopters can unsettle unpredictable animals like horses, so it’s vital we approach these situations carefully, making sure they’re safely put away before we land.” Utilizing a Kendrick Extrication Device (KED), the team carefully immobilized Joe, ensuring his back remained straight and his neck stable during the transfer. Leanne stated, “The KED allowed us to safely move him without causing further damage or increasing his discomfort.” Mr. Billingham received a high dose of morphine to alleviate his severe pain and was then moved into an ambulance. Inside, his condition showed slight improvement, enabling him to move his toes. Subsequently, he was transported via ambulance to Leeds General Infirmary for additional scans and treatment. There, it was confirmed that he had sustained eight broken ribs in the fall. He remained hospitalized for three days to recover from his injuries and is currently continuing his rehabilitation at home.