Fed-up jumps horse throws rider into water

A champion jumps horse has proven once and for all that you should never work with animals or children.

The horse was being guided by Dutch equestrian great Henk van de Pol when it decided it wanted no part in leaping over a small hurdle that led to water.

But rather than avoiding the obstacle completely, the horse seemed intent on teaching Van de Pol a lesson by stopping at the last minute and sending him flying head first out of the saddle.

The inglorious scene was punctuated by fears for Van de Pol as his right foot became stuck in the stirrup.

He was dragged for several metres as his mount bolted before finally falling free and clutching at his chest.

While equestrian events normally offer a rare insight into the bonds that are shared between horse and rider, there can be painful consequences when things go wrong.

Strong winds were blamed for giving this horse the spooks.