 told the BBC it had commissioned a research agency 'to produce an independent report into the legalities of ticketing Appleby Horse Fair, which will be undertaken without preconceptions'. They added: 'At this time we would not wish to pre-judge any findings which may come from that report.' The consultation will also examine the issue of safe-stopping sites for those travelling to the fair, many of whom make their way over long distances on horse-drawn transport. 30,000 visitors In June, Appleby which has a population of about 3,000 saw an estimated influx of 30,000 people for the gathering which traditionally serves as an opportunity for horse trading. Chief Superintendent Matt Kennerley, Gold Commander for Appleby Horse Fair, told LancsLive news site that this year's event had been the busiest fair since 2015 and claimed it had been a success despite it seeing police make a record 42 stop and searches and 18 arrests. 'We have had high numbers of visitors. We have to be responsive but we have to be efficient,' he said. 'I feel it has been a success with only one big incident. Officers have worked their socks off, they have been living away from home and one officer even missed){kind=link}
The centuries-old annual gathering could become a ticketed event for first time, under council plans
One of Europe’s biggest annual gatherings of gipsies and travellers could become a ticketed event after centuries of being free.
The Appleby Horse Fair, held in Appleby-in-Westmorland in Cumbria, could cost travellers and tourists who want to attend under fresh proposals being discussed by councillors.
Eden District Council and its partner agencies hired consultants to examine if the fair can become more “organised”, with access to parts of the small market town restricted, according to the BBC.
The legality and practicality of charging for entry to the fair are being explored.