Jade South's family have paid tribute to a wonderful daughter and sister who died doing what she loved doing best, riding her horse across country with her friends on a lovely sunny day. Jade, who lived at Linton with her parents Paul and Claire and 12-year-old brother, died when she was thrown from her horse and the animal fell on top of her.

Despite efforts by adult members of her riding group and the emergency services Jade was pronounced dead at the scene.

Jade grew up in Linton, attending Gorsley Pre-School, Abacus Nursery, Gorsley Goffs Primary and later John Kyrle High School. She was working towards her GCSEs, and having done her work experience at Three Counties Equine Hospital, had decided to make horses her life.

In her early years Jade was actively involved in Aston Ingham Rainbows and Lea Brownies where she enjoyed taking part in several gang shows. When Ross Young Farmers reformed Jade joined and was a keen member winning the Colin Shepherd Scroll for junior contribution to the club. She represented the club in public speaking competitions and also line dancing, flower arranging and cooking at the County Rally.

In 1999 Jade joined South Hereford and Ross Harriers Hunts branch of the Pony Club and weekends were never the same again! Since then she attended many rallies and camp every year where recently she enjoyed helping the younger members. She was honoured to have represented the branch at Area level in show jumping, eventing and stable management. Last year she progressed to competing at affiliated level in show jumping. Numerous trophies have adorned the dresser at the family home over the years including the Robert Okell Memorial Plate which she won at Harewood End Show. Her love of horses outweighed everything else, even to the extent of choosing to miss a family holiday in order to attend Lea Show!

Her parents said that the fifteen years of memories they have of her as a wonderful daughter and sister will comfort them in the months and years ahead. They added:?"We would like to say a big thank you to the ever-friendly people we have known throughout Jade's life, both children and adults."

Jade's brother Robert has created a web page in aid of the County Air Ambulance in memory of his sister Jade. Anyone wishing to donate can do so at http://www.justgiving.com/robertsouth1">www.justgiving.com/robertsouth1