Tributes have poured in for a Scots equestrian who has died "doing what she loved" in a tragic horse riding accident.
Mhairi Mackay, from the Highlands, had been riding her beloved horse, Gusto, on Tuesday June 21.
Her dad, Walter Goodwin, announced the sad news in a touching tribute to Mhairi online late the following evening.
He wrote: "Last night our beautiful, talented and kind Mhairi had an accident while out hacking with her beloved horse Gusto.
"Despite the efforts of many kind people Mhairi died.
"We appreciate all the kind words and offers of help already received."
Mhairi had been Vice Chairperson of Caledonian Riding Club, based in Inverness, who also paid confirmed the tragedy.
The group said on Facebook : "It is with great sadness we have to announce the passing of our Vice Chairperson Mhairi Mackay.
"As a result of an accident whilst hacking on her wonderful Gusto, Mhairi sadly passed away.
"Our thoughts at this time are with her husband Mike and her family.
"Mhairi was a dedicated member of the committee working tirelessly behind the scenes as well as a great competitor and supporter of all.
"Mhairi died doing what she absolutely loved she will be sorely missed, sleep tight lovely lady."
Others also paid their respects to the equestrian on social media.
SSI Thomson of Cadet Memories 1 Highlanders wrote: "Saddened to hear today that Mhairi Mackay ( née Goodwin) has passed away.
"She was a cadet at Fortrose Detachment from roughly 2006.
"Condolences go to her husband, father and her brother and family at this sad time."
Another person said: "A tragic accident.
"I first met Mhairi Mackay when we shared a room at camp, such a kind, dedicated horsewoman, may she rest in peace."
Another shared a photo and commented: "This photo speaks a thousands words about the person Mhairi Mackay was, the encouragement you showed other riders was amazing, high fives no matter what you are placed or what happened in the show ring.
"I am truly blessed to have known you and thank you for giving Amber the encouragement to carry on with her dressage.
"What an amazing time we had at area 22 with you being the biggest support and the loudest cheer for everyone.
"Life is so cruel but one thing for sure is every life you entered you left a massive hand print on their hearts.
"The world would be a better place if there was more people like you in it.
"Thank you for being a huge part and the glue to our committee and making Caledonian Riding Club the best it can be.
"Sleep tight beautiful."
Those attending a showjumping event at the Royal Highland Show on Sunday have been encouraged to wear blue ribbons in Mhairi's memory.
Local showjumper, known as Nic All online, wrote: "Tragically this week we lost a fellow horsewoman in the Highlands.
"As a mark of respect and to show our love for the amazing person Mhairi Mackay was we will be wearing these ribbons when we EA_ShowJumping compete at the Royal Highland Show on Sunday,
"Blue was one of her favourite colours and the hearts on this ribbon represent the kind and caring heart she had."
The post was later updated to say that the response was so overwhelming that more ribbon had to be bought.
A GoFundMe page has also been set up following the tragic accident.
The organiser wrote: "Never was there such a kind and inspirational young lady in the local equine community.
"She was liked by everyone and her kind words gave comfort and support to so many of us.
"Mhairi ran the equestrian events page on Facebook for many years, a committee member for Caley RC and above all she was a dedicated and inspiring, beautiful woman. Taken from this world far too soon.
"I would like to raise funds from the equine world to give to her family to distribute in her memory how they feel she would have wished.
"It was an honour of met such a beautiful young lady. May she Rest in Peace."
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