The horse-riding community has been left devastated after the sudden death of Abigail “Abbie” Garside, a 30-year-old champion dressage rider, who was found dead just hours after celebrating her first wedding anniversary with her husband.
Abigail, described as “fit, healthy and bubbly” by friends, had spent August 17 at the luxurious Rudding Park resort in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, alongside her husband, Samuel. The couple enjoyed champagne in a hot tub, marking their milestone with a toast that Abigail shared on social media.
Posting a photo of the pair smiling together, she wrote: “Lovely day in Harrogate celebrating our first wedding anniversary with my love.”
But just hours later, tragedy struck. On the following morning, August 18, Abigail’s body was discovered in gardens along Montpellier Hill, in the centre of Harrogate.
Husband’s Tribute
Her grieving husband Samuel shared a heartbreaking message online following the news of her passing:
“My absolute world, my best friend and my beautiful darling wife. I will love you forever and you will never leave my heart xxx.”
Friends also flooded social media with messages of shock and sorrow. Emma Butterworth wrote: “I’m heartbroken…Abbie was the most talented, bubbly and beautiful girl inside and out.”
Another friend, Jessica Goodier, added: “Still absolutely gobsmacked, Abbey was and always will be a shining star. Sending you all the love in the world. So very sorry for your loss.”
Community Mourning
Abigail was a highly respected and long-standing member of the Ribble Valley Riding Club, where she had competed and volunteered for more than 20 years. The club issued a heartfelt tribute, praising her commitment to equestrian sport and her role in the community.
“Abigail was a great supporter & highly valued member for over 20 years. Abigail will be sadly missed by everyone in the horse world, that’s for sure. Sending all our love to the family at this very sad time,” the club statement read.
Her death has sent ripples through the wider equestrian community, where she was admired not only for her competitive achievements but also for her generous spirit and encouragement of younger riders.
Police Investigation
Following the discovery of her body, North Yorkshire Police cordoned off the area in Montpellier Hill to investigate the circumstances. The force confirmed that, while inquiries are ongoing, her death is not currently being treated as suspicious.
In a statement, police said: “A cordon including screening was put in place to allow the investigation into the circumstances to take place. At this stage, we do not currently believe there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death and a report will now be prepared for the coroner. Our thoughts at this time are with the woman’s family.”
An inquest into Abigail’s death is due to open on September 11, which is expected to provide further clarity about the circumstances.
Remembering Abigail
Those who knew Abigail remember her as a radiant personality who brought joy to every competition and gathering she attended. Described as talented, hardworking, and compassionate, she built her life around her love of horses, her sporting career, and her family.
For Samuel, family, friends, and the entire equestrian community, her passing is an immeasurable loss. Tributes continue to pour in online, honouring not just a skilled rider but a young woman whose passion and positivity touched countless lives.
