Two people have been arrested after an incident at Appleby Horse Fair.
A 37-year-old man and a 24-year old man, both from outside the county, have been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder.
Chief Superintendent Matt Kennerley said: “Expert officers are actively reviewing CCTV footage with the aim of identifying offenders and making further arrests.
“A number of weapons, including sticks and bats of various types, as well as bladed weapons have also been seized by officers.
“There is no place at Appleby for those who travel here intent on disorder and violence – and that is a message which comes not just from the police but the local, settled community and the overwhelming majority of the Gypsy and Traveller community.”
Earlier, an emergency order has been put in place at Appleby Horse Fair after police were tipped off about major disorder at the event.
Police said they became aware that a number of people were intent on visiting the fair with the intent of causing violence.
More than 40 police officers worked quickly to prevent the incident. A large group of men, carrying sticks, were spotted coming down Fair Hill along Battlebarrow to The Sands.
Police officers moved fast to form a human cordon to prevent the group reaching their destination and a large crowd of several hundred people also formed around the officers and men to see what was happening.
The precaution worked – police dog handlers and motorcyclists were on the scene rapidly to act as back-up, but the large group was dispersed quickly and trouble was averted.
A police spokesman added: “An investigation is now underway and officers are working to identify those involved.”
Now, extra powers have been introduced as the constabulary has introduced a Section 60 and 60AA order.
A statement from Cumbria police said they had implemented a Section 60 and 60AA order after police became aware of a number of individuals heading down to the town this afternoon with the intention of causing disorder.
The order began at 2.26pm today, Saturday June 11, and will run for 24 hours.
The order is in place for the area as shown on the map:
The order gives officers enhanced stop and search powers, allowing them to search people without needing to suspect that they may be carrying weapons.
It also authorises the power to require removal of disguises, which allows police to require individuals to remove face coverings or hoods.
Superintendent Matt Kennerley, of Cumbria police, said: “Our officers acted swiftly to respond to the potential for disruption and prevent any escalation. We are working to identify those involved so action can be taken.
“The Section 60 and 60AA powers will help our officers to keep people safe. However, I also urge anyone with information about potential disorder or any other type of criminality to contact the police.
“Policing resources will be increased in key areas and at key times. In addition, people may see armed police in the Appleby area to allow such officers to respond swiftly and effectively to any potential situation that arises.
“Anyone who is seeking to come to the fair to cause trouble or to be violent is not welcome. Such people should stay away so those who wish to enjoy an enjoyable and safe Fair are free to do so.”
In an emergency, always call 999
If not an emergency:
- Report online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit
- Call the non-emergency number 101
- Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
It is understood this has been the only hint of large scale trouble at the fair so far. Police officers in the town said it had been a peaceful event and visitors reported there was a really nice atmosphere.
