As the countdown begins for the Appleby horse fair, visitors have been warned not to arrive too early.

Members of the Gypsy and Traveller community will be starting to make their way to take part in the traditional fair, which was cancelled last year and delayed this year because of Covid.

Billy Welch, known as the Shera Rom or Head Gypsy, has been involved with the fair all his life and made a promise to his father to preserve it.

He said: “This year, the fair is on a different date and people from round the country will be making their way.

“I just want to urge people who are visiting to be aware that there will be horses on the roads pulling the bow tops.

“I want those on the roads to take extra care — you don’t know what is round the corner.

“As we get closer, the numbers will increase. Everyone is really excited for the fair to start, but I want to remind people from my community to not arrive too early and keep safe.”

This message comes as Cumbria police prepare their own message to remind people of the slow- moving vehicles that will be in the area.

Inspector for Eden, Pete Aiston, said: “People driving on the county’s roads over the next week – not just in Eden but across the county — are likely to come across slow-moving vehicles as we approach the Appleby Horse Fair date.

“Please drive with caution and, when passing, do so considerately so that everyone can arrive at their destination safely.

“Please pay particular attention when passing horse-drawn vehicles. Be patient, take it slow and leave plenty of space when passing.”

In April, the Appleby Horse Fair Multi-Agency Strategic Co-ordinating Group met again to discuss plans for the 2021 Appleby Horse Fair.

An agreement was reached that MASCG would support the fair to take place from Thursday, August 12 – subject to any potential changes in Government regulations and recommendations around large events.

Those travelling to the fair are also being reminded to check where they can stop and plan ahead of time. There are more than 80 temporary stopping places in the county but people are being warned that they fill up fast.

A reminder that theA685 areas are considered unsuitable for any encampment and immediate action will be taken by the police without referral to MASCG or other agencies.

There are also temporary stopping points in South Lakeland for both traditional ‘bowtop’ caravans and motorised towed caravans at four locations on routes through South Lakeland to Appleby.