The $30 million celebration

Appleby Horse Fair, Europe's biggest traveller and gypsy gathering, is celebrating its 250th year in Cumbria. the event has drawn thousands of visitors, but it has also seen its share of problems, including racism and theft.

Cumbria Police have employed the use of AI facial recognition to ensure trouble is kept at bay at the festival. However, the festival was not without its perils, with reports of incidents including a black woman being whipped and subject to racial abuse.

A horse swept away in the River Eden

A horse was swept away in the River Eden while being washed at the festival. The black and white mare was captured bathing in the river before being entirely submerged and swept away with the tide.

A specialist water rescue team from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service was alerted by the RSPCA and captured the horse downstream. The mare was eventually rescued at the town's bowling green and brought under control.

Who is to blame for the racism?

The Gypsy and Traveller League has condemned the occurrence of racism at the festival as 'not acceptable'. the league has called for greater action to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

Appleby Fair Communities Group has praised Cumbria Police's efforts at the festival, but there have also been reports of incidents, including a black woman being whipped and subject to racial abuse.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

Cumbria Police have been praised for their efforts at this year's event,but there have also been reports of incidents, including a black woman being whipped and subject to racial abuse. The police have employed the use of AI facial recognition to ensure trouble is kept at bay at the festival.

A spokesperson for Appleby Fair Communities Group has said that they believe they have had an impact on the policing of Appleby Fair under the current Gold Commander .