Lady Vestey died suddenly, but peacefully, on 28 November, aged 71. A passionate equestrian, Lady Vestey, born Celia Elizabeth Knight, married Samuel Vestey, 3rd Baron Vestey, in 1981, and enjoyed much success in eventing.

Most notably, her horse Arakai claimed a team silver medal with Ian Stark at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. More recently, Lady Vestey was an involved, encouraging and enthusiastic owner, with Harry Meade.

Speaking about Lady Vestey, Ian Stark said; “It is very sad. Lady Vestey was such a wonderful knowledge of horses and loved to help me gallop the event horses. She hunted my first team horse, Oxford Blue, after his retirement and loved to be involved in all their horses work, especially Arakai who went to the Sydney Olympics. A true friend who will be sadly missed.”

Harry Meade added; “Lady Vestey was a hugely knowledgeable horsewoman. She was kind, had one of the sharpest brains you’ll meet and a wicked sense of humour. She was a rarity in that her involvement with horses covered eventing, racing (both national hunt and flat), breeding, hunting, showing and her beloved ponies that she drove from her trap or caravan.

“She brought great fun to our team and will be much missed throughout the equestrian world.”

Stowell Park, home to Lord and Lady Vestey, was also host to a BE horse trials for several years as Lucinda Green MBE, BE Vice President, fondly recalls; “My memories go back decades to Stowell Park Horse Trials - up and down steep hills with the Vestey’s as our kind welcoming hosts.”

Lady Vestey is survived by her husband, Samuel Vestey, 3rd Baron Vestey, three children: The Hon. William Guy Vestey, The Hon. Arthur George Vestey and The Hon. Mary Henrietta Vestey and grandchildren, Ella, Frankie, Sam and Cosima.

A private family funeral will be held with a Memorial service later. Family flowers only please, but donations gratefully received in Celia's memory to Ebony Horse Club.