The Appleby Horse Fair is always a cause for concern with the RSPCA - and this year was no different.

The RSPCA was working alongside Cumbria Constabulary, who were helping them save animals kept in hot cars from dying and were raising awareness of illegal puppy selling which occurs at the fair regularly.

Rob Melloy, the chief inspector of the RSPCA, described their priorities and how they aim to achieve them.

He said: “We’re here with a number of other animal welfare charities, and our role is to fill a gap.

“When you have an event with this many horses, like a racing event you would have vets, stewards, stabling, and facilities available for the horses.

“This (the Appleby Horse Fair) is happening and a gathering, it’s not really organised by anyone in particular, so we’re plugging that gap.

The buying and selling of animals can be confusing regarding its legality, but Mr Molloy explained: “You can trade horses here – it’s a horse fair – but it’s illegal to sell a puppy or any other sort of domestic animal.

“We know there are people here trying to sell puppies, my advice would be if you want a puppy, don’t get it from the Appleby Horse Fair."