The RSPCA has launched two investigations at Appleby Horse Fair – but said on the whole, it was ‘so far so good’.
Rob Molloy, officer in charge of the RSPCA operation, said they were a bit disappointed about the early arrivals which had caused some issues with resources, but other than that, it seemed so far, so good.
“We have got a couple of ongoing investigations following horses that have been to the fair,” said Mr Molloy.
There are 30 RSPCA officers on duty along with 16 staff assisting from other organisations including World Horse Welfare, Bransby Horses, which is one of the UK’s largest equine welfare charities, Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Blue Cross.
Mr Molloy said it felt busy for a Friday, but in terms of the numbers of interventions which they were seeing, it was about the same as a usual Appleby Horse Fair.
He said because it was “a happening” – rather than an organised event like a major a race meeting – there was not the stewards or vets on hand to ensure animal safety, so they were there to fill the void.
“We are here just to advise people and deter the people that would be abusive towards the animals,” said Mr Molloy.
He added: “There are some amazing animals here. There is some beautiful horses, we always see that. This is where you come to show your horses off, people tend not to bring poor horses here, so the standard is always usually quite high.”
King of the Gypsies Billy Welch has urged people not to miss Appleby Horse Fair.
