Police 'very concerned' as travellers gather for Wellingborough Horse Fair

The event had been planned for August Bank Holiday
The caravanThe caravan
The caravan

Northamptonshire Police and Wellingborough council are working together to reassure residents that they are taking a horse fair planned for August Bank Holiday 'seriously'.

Superintendent Adam Ward of Northamptonshire Police's central operations team said: “Northamptonshire Police are aware of a proposed ‘horse fair’ event being planned for the August bank holiday weekend in the Wellingborough area.

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“Together with the Borough Council of Wellingborough and local public health colleagues, we are working with the organisers in assessing the plans for the event and to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to comply with Covid-19 related laws and to prevent the spread of the virus.

“We are very concerned about the current Covid-19 situation within the county and that any large gathering may increase the risk of the Covid infection spreading.

"We take this very seriously and must consider the safety of all parties while operating within the legislation and powers available to us. It is vital that any public event is safe and compliant with Covid regulations and the organisers are working with us and our partners in this regard.

“We are aware of community concerns about the potential for such an event to be held in the area at the current time. Rural and Neighbourhood officers are patrolling the local community and visiting businesses and farms to discuss their concerns and provide advice and information. Local people can also speak to officers when they see them on patrol or they can contact us on 101, quoting Operation Bailey.

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“We are also aware that a number of unauthorised traveller encampments have recently set up in the Wellingborough area. Working with the local authority, we have already issued a number of enforcement notices and continue to proactively engage with encampments to offer advice and serve enforcement notices where necessary.”

Horses on Croyland ParkHorses on Croyland Park
Horses on Croyland Park

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