Dozens Arrested and 85 Vehicles Seized as Police Report “Successful” Appleby Horse Fair Operation
Police have confirmed that 69 people were arrested and 85 vehicles were seized during this year’s Appleby Horse Fair in Cumbria, as officers described the overall operation as a success with no major incidents of violence or serious disorder.
The figures were released following the conclusion of the six-day event, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Appleby-in-Westmorland each June. The fair is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Europe, bringing together members of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities alongside visitors from across the UK.
Cumbria Police said the majority of arrests were linked to offences such as drug driving and other driving-related issues, alongside a smaller number of proactive enforcement actions carried out during the event. Authorities also confirmed that 85 vehicles were seized as part of wider safety and compliance checks.
This year’s fair marked the first full deployment of live facial recognition technology in Appleby, with police scanning tens of thousands of faces in an effort to identify individuals on watchlists and support ongoing investigations. Officers said the technology contributed to several positive identifications during the event.
Despite the scale of policing and the high volume of visitors, officials reported a largely calm atmosphere across the site. Senior officers said there were no significant incidents of violence or widespread disorder, and praised the coordinated efforts of police teams, partner agencies and event organisers.
The Appleby Horse Fair, which dates back centuries, typically sees a heavy police presence due to its size and the complex logistics of managing traffic, horse trading areas, and large temporary encampments across the town.
Alongside enforcement activity, animal welfare teams and trading standards officers were also present throughout the event to monitor horse welfare and check for illegal goods being sold on-site.
Police say lessons from this year’s operation will be reviewed ahead of future fairs, with a continued focus on balancing public safety, community traditions, and minimal disruption to residents in the area.
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