This horse-mad boy, 12, seen in this photo smiling and giving the thumbs up on horseback has died after being kicked in the chest by a mare.

The incident took place at a Gaucho Traditions Centre (CTG) in the city of Joinville in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina on Saturday night, 15th January.

CTGs are centres that teach traditions, typical dances and food from the southern part of Brazil.

The victim has been named as Marcos Elias Silveira Miranda. His funeral took place yesterday (Monday, 17th January).

He was cremated and his ashes will be taken to his family’s birthplace, the city of Uruguaiana in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul.

Miranda lived with his three siblings, mother, and stepfather Eduardo da Silva in Joinville.

Da Silva has been in charge of looking after the horses at the CTG for nine months, and he has said his stepson was hugely passionate about horses.

The bereaved stepdad was quoted in local reports as saying: “Today is one of the saddest days of my life. He was always with me, by my side.

“He was a loving boy, loved by everyone here, a joker, and very respectful.”

The incident reportedly took place when the boy released a mare, which he had previously ridden, from the stable.

Once free, it jumped and kicked the boy with one of its hind legs.

No event was taking place at the CTG at the time of the accident.

It was not reported if the authorities are investigating the incident.