THOUSANDS of people began arriving in Appleby yesterday (Thursday) for the start of the town's annual horse fair.

Bow top caravans and decorative carriages rolled in to town as crowds began gathering along the banks of the River Eden to watch the traditional washing of the horses.

Today (Friday) the fair will get into full swing with horses racing along Flash Lane while the streets will be lined with caravans and carts.

Travellers representative Billy Welch said: "A lot of thought and hard work has gone into making the event run as smoothly as possible for the travellers, gypsies and the local people. The police have gone a long way to earn the trust and respect of our people, which is really appreciated."