A WOMAN who suffered serious injuries in a horse riding accident is raising money for the charity which she says saved her life.

Paula McMillan, who lives in Swinton, was left with two broken wrists, a broken nose and a smashed kneecap when she fell off her horse while riding in Thorpe Bassett three years ago.

The 48-year-old was taken to hospital by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, without which she said she would not be here today.

“I am so grateful to them, I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for them because they saved my life,” she said.

“I thought it would be nice to give something back and I have done other fundraising events, but I still want to give something back to them for what they did.”

Paula, who is a hairdresser and care worker, has already taken part in a Santa dash and jumped into the sea to raise money for the air ambulance.

She has organised a garden party at her home and is hoping to raise at least £500.

There will be teas, coffees and cold drinks, as well as homemade cakes, children’s activities, balloons, stalls and a tombola.

There will also be a haberdashery stall for her garden party guests to browse while enjoying the refreshments.

Paula said: “It would be great to raise as much money as possible for them because it is such a fantastic cause and this event is all about them and raising money for them.

“I’m back doing my hairdressing now and I do care in nursing as well. Everyone cared and looked after me and now I’m looking after people so it has changed my life around really.”

The garden party will be held on Sunday, from 2pm to 6pm, at 3 Manor Vale, Swinton.