Rise in arrests at Appleby Horse Fair with 'proactive' enforcement

The recently published evaluation report for the 2022 fair showed that arrests had increased to 18 in 2022 from 13 in 2021, and recorded crimes were also up 12 per cent. 

The report also suggests that the RSPCA 'were pleased' that the number of people attempting to sell puppies was down significantly, with only one litter of eight puppies being seized compared to 29 puppies in 2021.

The ambulance service also recorded three fewer injuries during the fair. 
According to the report, the multi agency strategic co-ordinating group (MASCG) said that the external costs of the fair for the agencies had fallen from £496,535 in 2021 to £305,969. 

A spokesperson from the Appleby Fair Communities Group has criticised this figure however, saying: "The report does not include anything which may be counted as day-to-day work.

"A request was made at last year's public meeting for MASCG to publish the true costs to agencies, such as normal salaries for those assigned to the event, any overtime plus additional costs for travel, equipment and logistics.

"Clearly this has not been taken onboard by MASCG who are still intent on publishing a misleading total whilst saying costs have been reduced.

"If you look at highways costs, an FOI revealed the total cost for signs and staffing to put out the traffic plan costs in excess of £80,000.

"The evaluation report this year takes great care to point out 'the cost includes additional staff time not normal working hours'... at what point will the public be made aware of the actual cost of the event?"

The travellers site at the Appleby Horse Fair. (Image: PA)

Regarding the 'firmer' line of police enforcement, Chief Superintendent Matt Kennerley said: "Throughout all stages of the 2022 Horse Fair our officers worked proactively in order to ensure we did all we could to make the Fair as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone – whether it be those who travel hundreds of miles to be here or those who live in Appleby itself.

"Whilst last year clearly indicated a step-up in proactive enforcement by officers, I know it was also welcomed by the overwhelming majority who come to the fair in a positive fashion.

"I can assure the public that this policing approach will be continued into all stages of the 2023 Appleby Horse Fair.

"The constabulary has worked to develop and improve methods of reporting ahead of recent fairs.

"This work was well-received and is continuing ahead of the 2023 Fair, with non-emergency options including a dedicated 101 call option, online reporting form and a live webchat – all responded to by police officers in our Command and Control Room," he said.

This year, the fair will take place from June 8 to June 14.