A GROUP dedicated to safety at Appleby Horse Fair has a new member.

Cllr Karen Greenwood represents Appleby on Eden District Council and said she was "honoured" to serve on the Multi Agency Strategic Coordinating Group (MASCG).

"I have worked every horse fair since 2004 at Appleby Tourist Information Centre," said the Independent councillor, "and believe I can bring another perspective and a depth of understanding of the issues, having worked with locals, visitors, Gypsies and Travellers and Cumbria Police, and the many agencies who work so hard to keep us all safe.

"I am very much looking forward to this new opportunity.”

Group chairman Matthew Neal said having elected members involved would broaden the group's understanding.

"I look forward to working closely with Cllr Karen Greenwood in the coming months as MASCG carries out its preparatory planning work for this year’s fair," said Mr Neal, deputy chief executive of Eden District Council.

"Having the involvement of elected members will enhance MASCG’s understanding of issues of concern from local residents and the Gypsy and Traveller community as we work to make the horse fair as safe as possible for all concerned.”

The group brings together agencies with statutory roles including councils, the police and the RSPCA for meetings throughout the year to discuss and coordinate activities for Appleby Horse Fair.

The primary aim is ensuring the safety of everyone who attends, while taking into account the needs of residents, Gypsies, Travellers and visitors.

The group does not organise the event, which is an annual traditional gathering with no formal organiser.

Following 2018's fair, several parishes and residents asked for the membership of MASCG to be extended to included elected representatives.

Last November the group agreed to included councillors from Cumbria County Council, South Lakeland District Council and Eden District Council. Mr Neal has written to Cumbria and South Lakeland inviting them to make a nomination.

For more about the group, see www.applebyfair.org