Wellingborough MP says horse fair should NOT go ahead

The MP for Wellingborough and Rushden has said this weekend's horse fair should not go ahead.

Peter Bone MP has said it is irresponsible to hold the event while the area has additional Covid restrictions.

His views echo those of many people living near the site of the fair, which has led to several business owners choosing to close their doors this weekend because of it.

In a statement released today (Thursday), Mr Bone said: "I am very concerned about the proposed horse fair near Wollaston that is happening over the Bank Holiday weekend.

"Apparently, hundreds of people will be arriving at the fair from all over the country.

"As you will be aware, Wellingborough has additional restrictions in place at the moment because of the high level of Covid cases in the area.

"Residents are being asked not to mix with people outside their own bubble.

"It seems to me that it is very irresponsible to hold this horse fair while we have additional Covid restrictions.

"I would encourage people not to attend the event if it goes ahead.

"For many weeks I have been working with the police, the Borough Council of Wellingborough and other agencies to try and stop the event from taking place.

"I am very grateful to the efforts of Councillor Martin Griffiths, leader of the borough council, for his strong efforts to stop the gathering.

"We have had regular cross agency meetings where all eventualities have been discussed and planned for.

"I and my office have had lengthy conversations with the police including the assistant chief constable, who is gold commander for this event.

"I know the police will have additional manpower available over the weekend to ensure that my constituents are kept safe and any lawlessness is dealt with immediately.

"In addition, the police and other agencies have acted promptly to remove illegal encampments across the Wellingborough constituency and further afield in Northamptonshire.

"I myself have visited the site and in my opinion such a large event happening in the middle of the pandemic, when there is additional local restrictions is unacceptable."

To read the joint statement released by police, Wellingborough Council and Public Health yesterday (Wednesday) on the horse fair, click here.

And to see how villagers, business owners and landowners are preparing for the weekend, click here.

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