THE FRIENDS and family of a popular horsewoman raised almost £20,000 at an event to mark what would have been her 21st birthday.

Ella Pallister died four years ago today, in a showjumping accident on January 30, 2013. She was aged just 17.

Last summer, the community banded together to hold Ella Fest, a ‘mini Glastonbury’ fundraising event in Ella’s home village of Portesham. Now, close family and friends have handed over a cheque for £19,322 to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. The funds were raised through donations and contributions at the event, which took place in June 2016.

Ella’s mum Karen thanked everyone who sponsored the event, attended, helped or contributed in any way to make the event such a success.

She said: “The air ambulance picked Ella up and they were so lovely. It is a very worthy cause and it’s one of those things that you never know when you might need it. 

“We went up to the airfield and they took time to talk to us, showing us around and talking about the new helicopter they are getting.”

Ella’s family and friends raised £27,000 for the air ambulance even before the Ella Fest fundraiser. Performers included the Leggomen, Ansell and Gretal, Wilson, Hustle and Slipstream. There was also a bar, stalls, food and children’s entertainment.

Mrs Pallister particularly wanted to thank the following for their sponsorship: Freshwater Caravan Park, Palmers Brewery, Duke’s Auctioneers, Milton Equine, Humphrey Kirk Solicitors, DEP Printware and Compass Insurance.

The catering outlets donated a percentage of their takings and Barclays Bank match funded. Malcolm Doubel donated the use of his field for the event to take place.

Mrs Pallister said: “I’d also like to thank the Portesham volunteers, the WI of Portesham and all the bands that played, and the community for helping to run it all, as well as anyone else who donated or sponsored the event.

“Also thank you so much to everyone who came to make the day special.”

Mrs Pallister and Ella’s dad Ted have described Ella as their ‘shining star’ who loved horse riding and winning competitions.