Aerial images show scale of rubbish left after Appleby Horse Fair
These images show the scale of litter left after 40,000 people gathered for Europe’s largest Gypsy and travellers’ event
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Plastic bottles, camping seats and skips littered the temporary campsite after hundreds of caravans moved off yesterday ( 12 June ) from from Appleby Horse Fair.
The traditional event - which sees members of the gypsy, Roma and travelling communities gather - usually takes place at the start of June.
Lasting for a week and starting on the first Thursday of June, the event traces its history back to James II, who, in 1685, granted a royal charter allowing a horse fair “near the River Eden”. But the travelling community reckon they have been coming to Appleby for at least 500 years, and possibly since Roman times.
Travellers from around the world converge on the Cumbrian market town to meet old friends and do business – mainly trading horses.
Attendance is bolstered by a much wider community from all walks of life, people who share an interest in horses and caravanning.
Appleby Fair is not officially an organised event but is a traditional gathering with a long history. Today it is managed by the Multi-Agency Strategic Co-ordinating Group including the police and Eden District Council.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments