A DRIVER clipped a champion showhorse and its rider in a hit-and-run.

Theresa Stephens, 45, and her daughter Megan, 24, burst into hysterical screams as horse Jack was struck by the red Toyota Yaris as they rode along Hullbridge Road, by Rayleigh Golf Club.

Theresa, who was riding the champion dressage horse at the time, was also struck on the foot as the car hit the back of her horse.

It is believed the car’s wing mirror ripped off due to the force of the impact, causing cuts along the horse's body and swelling on his leg.

Mrs Stephens, of Manor Road, Hockley, said: “The bang was a horrific noise. I thought he had broken Jack’s leg. I was screaming at Megan. The wing mirror cut him across his stomach and leg. I saw debris on the road and the car dented. It was so traumatic.”

Mrs Stephens and her daughter quickly jumped off the horses and shouted at the driver, who initially stopped.

With inconsiderate drivers swerving around the family, they told the driver to follow them to the golf club car park to get his details, but instead he drove off.

She added: “I hope he has gone and reported himself to the police, but if not then it is disgusting. I amangry and want to find him.

“I would like to know why he did it because there was nothing coming on the other side of the road, there was no reason for him to hit me. It’s really upsetting.”

Jack, who is eight and was reserve champion at his last national competition in August, has a bruised and swollen leg, cuts to his stomach, but miraculously no known permanent damage. But it will take a month for him to recover before he can go out walking again.

Mrs Stephens said she follows safety guidelines and wears high visibility clothing when riding and she trains people how to ride horses on the roads.

But drivers are becoming increasingly aggressive towards her.

She said: “I am very cautious when we go out.”

Police are investigating the incident, which happened at about 11.30am on Sunday, and ask any witnesses to call 101