Kent huntsman Brian Fraser trial: Woman 'terrified by shooting'

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-21274716

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A horsewoman was "absolutely terrified" after being shot by a gunman who was hiding in the bushes outside her home, a court has heard.

Louise Leggatt suffered leg injuries when she was shot as she tended her horses in Benenden on 15 March.

She also had shotgun pellets in her bowel and pelvis, Maidstone Crown Court has heard.

Brian Fraser, 63, has denied attempted murder but admitted possessing a firearm without a licence.

The court was told that Ms Leggatt's attacker was her spurned former boyfriend who she had met through the Ashford Valley Hunt.

The jury heard that Mr Fraser, of Criol Lane, Shadoxhurst, near Ashford, had attempted to rekindle their relationship.

The shooting happened two months after arsonists attacked Ms Leggatt's home, forcing her to rent a property next door to where the shooting happened.

'Horrendous pain'

Ms Legget told the court that she always checked on her horses between 21:00 GMT and 22:00 every night.

"Since the fire I had become quite concerned about who was about so I always had the door locked," she said.

"I initially unlocked the door to let my dog out, then closed the door, went back into the house and put my wellies and coat on.

"My dog was in the corner of the garden, very upset, very angry and barking, not like he normally is with a rabbit or a fox.

"He was very angry, as if there was something there that he didn't like. I could see where he was. I had a torch in my hand and I shone the torch to where he was in the corner.

"I didn't get very far on to the patio and, as I shone the torch across the garden and shut the patio door at the same time, I was shot."

She said she could not see anyone in the garden.

"First of all, I heard the sound and then I had a horrendous pain in my leg and hip, and I realised what had happened."

She told the jury: "I was absolutely terrified. I had never been so terrified in all my life."

The trial continues.