Appleby once again

Shocked to discover it has been six years since my last visit to Appleby Horse Fair. So, another visit was booked for 2019. Not a lot has changed, the horses are still washed in the River Eden, the young travellers still race bareback through the town and gypsy fashions abound.

The RSPCA and Police were in evidence but we saw no trouble or mistreatment. The traveller community are there to trade and need the horses in the best condition. Many are washed in the river, primped with talcum powder and have their manes plaited. Got talking to an interesting guy called Tractor Dave who goes to all the fairs. He doesn't have a tractor.