A significant fire broke out at the Appleby Horse Fair in Appleby-in-Westmorland, Cumbria, engulfing a tent, a stall, and a van. Video footage shared on social media captured the dramatic scene, showing firemen battling the blaze while fair-goers attempted to help by moving flammable items to prevent further damage. The fire was eventually brought under control, with clips of the incident garnering thousands of views online.

The Appleby Horse Fair, considered the largest traditional travellers’ fair in Europe, attracts around 10,000 visitors from the Roma and travellers communities, significantly increasing the local population of about 3,000. A key highlight of the fair involves travellers submerging their horses in the River Eden for trading purposes, although safety concerns have been raised regarding the swimming abilities of both horses and riders.

Martina Wright, a social media influencer, emphasized the importance of safety during this practice, advising participants to ensure they can swim and to be cautious around horses. The fair, which has roots dating back to the 1770s, has evolved over the years into a vibrant event for the travelling community, showcasing their culture and traditions.