Last updated on .From the section Equestrian

William Fox-Pitt has been the lynchpin of Britain's eventing team for several years

British eventer William Fox-Pitt has made progress but remains "very ill" in a French hospital following a fall in the World Young Horse Championships.

The 46-year-old is conscious, breathing on his own and communicating with family and doctors, British Eventing external-link said on Monday.

He suffered a "head trauma" after falling from his horse Reinstated, who was unharmed, on 17 October.

Fox-Pitt is GB's most successful rider with 20 major championship medals.

"William and his family are very grateful for all the support and messages, it is hugely appreciated," the governing body said.

It added that further progress will take time and asked the public to continue respecting the family's privacy.

During his career Fox-Pitt has won three Olympic team podium finishes and six European team gold medals for Great Britain.

Fox-Pitt, who is based at Sturminster Newton in Dorset, was competing in the seven-year-old class at Le Lion-d'Angers.