Heather Bell, 38, of Middle Rasen died after being thrown from her horse in Market Rasen, Lincs, after it was frightened by a low-flying helicopter.

Stephen Jowett, with 40 years experience of flying helicopters, said he was not convinced the flight was necessary or in an appropriate area.

Mr Jowett suggested that the RAF could make more use of flying simulators.

He did say the crew flew exceptionally well and it is conceivable that the instruments were unreliable.

He also said that if the present low-flying policy continues it is highly likely the accident will be repeated.