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River remains closed at Appleby Horse Fair.

The section of river in Appleby that is used for horse washing will remain closed this evening because of heavy rain-fall. It's been shut for most of the day due to concerns about the safety of horses and riders.

It's expected it will re-open in the morning but that decision will be made on the weather conditions overnight. Tens of thousands of gypsies and travellers are attending the annual event.

River levels remain potentially dangerous at Appleby Horse Fair

The horse washing area in the river at the Appleby Horse Fair will remain closed because the level of the water is potentially dangerous for horses and riders after heavy rain-fall.

It peaked at 1am this morning at a level of 1.23 metres. Anything over 1 metre is regarded as a potential dangers. The level is receding but will be reviewed again at 2pm.

Main horse washing area closed at Appleby because of heavy rain.

Horses
Appleby Horse Fair Credit: ITV Border

Heavy rain-fall overnight has led to the main horse washing area at the Appleby Horse Fair to be closed. Concerns were raised at the daily meeting about the river level in the town where the traditional activity takes place.

A road closure is also in place at Market Field to stop cars getting on to the area because of the muddy conditions. Police are asking people to slow down after an 11 year old girl was hit by a sulky horse cart

ACC Michelle Skeer said "She was not seriously injured but it highlights the need for everyone to take their time. We welcome everyone who is visiting the show today and hope they have a safe and enjoyable day."

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40,000 expected at Appleby

40,000 visitors are expected to visit Appleby in Cumbria as the annual Horse Fair gets underway. Police are warning of significant delays on the surrounding roads over the next 6 days.

Horse enthusiasts travel to Appleby
Horse enthusiasts travel to Appleby Credit: ITV

The event is the biggest of its kind in Europe and is major date in travelling community's calendar. Police say hundreds of caravans have already arrived on sites around Appleby and Ravenstonedale.

Routes most likely to be used over the coming days include the A66. Drivers are being urged to drive carefully and those steering carriages have been asked to be as visible as possible.

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