
This is the terrifying moment a horse violently reared up while its jockey tried to mount it.

Rider Johnny King was on his way to the start of the race during the meeting at Laytown, County Meath, when Arbitrageur suddenly threw its head back.

The jockey held on as the horse flew mid-air while groom Aidan Wall cowered in fear underneath. Despite the dangerous reaction, the rider escaped unhurt and led the horse to seventh in the race.

Since 1868 the village on the eastern coast of Ireland has hosted the only annual meet in the British Isles held on a beach under the so-called Rules of Racing.

It used to be held in conjunction with the Boyne Regatta - the rowing would take place at high tide while the horses would compete when the water had receded.

Racegoers from all over the globe have attended the September event, including musicians, film stars and royalty. In the 1950s, the legendary owner the Aga Khan and his wife the Begum were in attendance.

Jockey Johnny King was on his way to the start of the race during the meeting at Laytown in County Meath, Ireland, when Arbitrageur violently jerked its head back

Despite the dangerous reaction, the rider escaped unhurt and went on to finish seventh in the race, during the only meet that his held on a beach in Britain

The horse (far right) managed to remain calm during parts of the meet, including moments where it trotted past families watching on the beach

Since 1868 the village on the eastern coast has hosted the single annual meet held on a beach under the Turf Club rules of racing

Two spectators walking their dogs along the eastern Irish coast watch as jockeys compete during the O'Neills Sports Handicap

Crowds line the track and watch as the horses head towards the finish line during the only meet held on a beach in the British Isles racing calender