A former Mansfield Woodhouse woman raised more than £4,000 by completing a charity horse race, despite only learning to ride in 2023.

Lyn Comerford rode in the The British Horse Society event in Wetherby, helping the society’s work to support amateur jockeys and the welfare of horses.

She rode Whatwouldyouknow, which was offered for her to race by its owners, Dearing Plastics Ltd and Mark Ingram.

Born in Mansfield Woodhouse, where she attended Leas Park Junior School, Lyn said: “Last year I participated in a charity race (the Markel Magnolia Cup at Goodwood) with no experience.

“I received such fantastic support from people and horses in the industry. This inspired me to ride again to raise money for the worthy cause.

“The challenge to get back on a racehorse hasn’t been easy. Last year’s race was the most challenging experience of my life, but I realised that if I didn’t seize this opportunity now, while the memories of riding are still fresh, I might never do it again.”

Lyn, who received support at the well-known racing yard of Nigel and Kim Tinkler, has so far raised £4,085 for The British Horse Society.

Her other sporting triumphs include completing the 6 Marathon Majors — the London, Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City marathons — an ironman, and the Marathon des Sables.

After going to Leas Park Junior School, Lyn attended Nottingham High School and then went to Imperial College London, gaining a degree in mechanical engineering.

She relocated to the United States and completed a masters degree in California, before a business degree at Wharton University in Philadelphia.

Now living in London with her husband, Gaurav Nath, Lyn is divisional director, tax, at Markel, leading the delivery of its fee protection insurance and tax consultancy services to more than 2,000 accountancy practices.

She previously worked at Merrill Lynch, the World Bank, and McKinsey & Company.