Police Impose 48-Hour Dispersal Order in Appleby After Reports of Horse Cart Racing
A 48-hour dispersal order has been enforced in the Cumbrian town of Appleby after reports of dangerous horse and sulky racing on public roads sparked concern among residents and authorities.
Cumbria Police confirmed the order was introduced after multiple incidents involving people driving horse-drawn sulkies lightweight two-wheel carts commonly associated with horse racing traditions at speed through The Sands area of the town. Authorities said the behaviour posed a serious risk to pedestrians, motorists, and other road users.
The emergency powers were put in place as Appleby prepares for the annual Appleby Horse Fair, one of Europe’s largest traditional Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller gatherings, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Police said the incidents occurred almost two weeks before the official start of the event, raising concerns over early arrivals and unsafe activity in the area.
Detective Superintendent Dan St Quintin, Gold Commander for the Appleby Horse Fair policing operation, said officers would not tolerate dangerous racing in the town.
He stated that police had already spoken to those believed to be involved and warned them that failing to comply with the dispersal order could lead to arrest. Authorities also indicated that the individuals involved were believed to be from Cumbria rather than visitors travelling from outside the county.
Under Section 34 dispersal powers, officers can order individuals to leave a designated area for a specified period if their behaviour is causing harassment, alarm, distress, or disruption to the local community. Anyone refusing to comply with the order may face criminal prosecution.
Police stressed that the measure was introduced to protect public safety and maintain order ahead of the internationally known horse fair, which annually draws around 10,000 Gypsy, Roma and Traveller visitors along with tens of thousands of spectators. The event is famous for horse trading, traditional caravans, and displays involving horses and sulkies.
Authorities and organisers have repeatedly urged visitors not to arrive too early for the fair, warning that premature arrivals can create disruption for local communities and place pressure on roads, parking, and public services. Earlier this month, organisers appealed for travellers to wait until official opening dates before making their way to Appleby.
Police said they would continue monitoring the situation closely and would not hesitate to use additional enforcement powers if dangerous behaviour continued in the town ahead of the fair.
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