A chance to discuss views on horse fair

by Victoria Raimes

Last updated 05:38, Friday, 04 July 2008

RESIDENTS have the chance to air their views on how Appleby Horse Fair can be improved at a community meeting next Wednesday.

Philip Chappelhow: ‘Opportunity to make constructive comments’

The Multi-Agency Strategic Co-ordination Group (MASCG), now responsible for co-ordinating the fair, which saw a record 40,000 visitors per day this year, will hold a drop-in session on July 9 between 10am-1pm,

Points raised at the session will be discussed and feedback given at the Upper Eden neighbourhood forum that evening from 7pm.

The MASCG includes several public bodies including Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Constabulary and the RSPCA.

Already on the agenda for discussion are crime and public order, toilet provision, traffic and road safety and animal welfare, but the MASCG is keen for all interested parties to have their say.

Philip Chappelhow, chair of the county council’s local committee for Eden, said: “The drop-in session and neighbourhood forum present an opportunity for people to make constructive comments about what they’d like to change or improve about the fair next year.”

Gypsy representative Billy Welsh said: “We saw massive improvements in the quality of the fair this year thanks to Eden District Council’s increased involvement and this can only be added upon next year.”