Spectator dies of medical event at Waimate Rodeo

A Waimate local has died at the Canterbury town’s rodeo on Saturday of a suspected medical event.

The Herald understands the death at the Waimate A&P showgrounds was outside of the rodeo area and not linked to the day’s action.

Police and ambulance were called to the showgrounds about 4.50pm. They are treating the death as a sudden medical event.

It is understood the deceased is a well known Waimate local.

A woman rounds a barrel during the open barrel race at the Waimate rodeo in 2015. Photo / Hamish MacLean