Appleby Horse Fair aftermath laid bare in shocking pictures

Appleby Horse Fair aftermath laid bare in shocking pictures
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Aden-Jay Wood

By Aden-Jay Wood


Published: 13/06/2022

- 10:17

Updated: 14/02/2023

- 11:02

Rubbish was left strewn across the fields following the four-day event

Shocking images show the aftermath of the Appleby Horse Fair.

Around 30,000 people were expected to visit the town in northern England this weekend for the four-day event.


A total of 10,000 of those were members of the gypsy, Roma and traveller community.

Hundreds of caravans were seen at the site, with horses and horse-drawn carts also seen on the streets.

Rubbish in a field at the end of the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby, Cumbria. Picture date: Monday June 13, 2022.
Rubbish strewn across fields in Appleby
Owen Humphreys

Rubbish in a field at the end of the Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of the travelling community in Appleby, Cumbria. Picture date: Monday June 13, 2022.
The Appleby Horse Fair was expected to attract 30,000 people this year
Owen Humphreys

And images taken following the end of the event shows the piles rubbish left behind by those in attendance.

Local pubs and schools closed their doors ahead of the event, while Cumbria Police called on motorists to drive with caution through the town.

Two men were, aged 37 and 24, were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder on Saturday.

Cumbria Police Chief Superintendent Matt Kennerley said: “Expert officers are actively reviewing CCTV footage with the aim of identifying offenders and making further arrests.

“A number of weapons, including sticks and bats of various types, as well as bladed weapons have also been seized by officers.

“There is no place at Appleby for those who travel here intent on disorder and violence – and that is a message which comes not just from the police but the local, settled community and the overwhelming majority of the Gypsy and Traveller community.”

While officers also implemented a section 60 in Appleby on Saturday, giving them more powers to stop and search.

Superintendent Matt Kennerley of Cumbria Police said: “Our officers acted swiftly to respond to the potential for disruption and prevent any escalation. We are working to identify those involved so action can be taken.

“The Section 60 and 60AA powers will help our officers to keep people safe. However, I also urge anyone with information about potential disorder or any other type of criminality to contact the police.

“Policing resources will be increased in key areas and at key times. In addition, people may see armed police in the Appleby area to allow such officers to respond swiftly and effectively to any potential situation that arises.

“Anyone who is seeking to come to the Fair to cause trouble or to be violent is not welcome. Such people should stay away so those who wish to enjoy an enjoyable and safe Fair are free to do so.”

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