Investigation after horse dies at Appleby Horse Fair
CCTV has been released
Last updated 7th Jun 2024
The RSPCA is appealing for information after a horse was worked to death at Appleby Horse Fair.
The stallion collapsed at Jubilee Bridge at around 3pm on Wednesday (5th June).
RSPCA chief inspector Rob Melloy said:
“The horse’s temperature was very high, and he was covered in rubs. He had been worked until he dropped.
“This was an inexcusable act of cruelty. This person has let themselves, their family and of course this poor horse down, who undoubtedly suffered before he died.
“We want to hear from anyone who knows who is responsible and are releasing CCTV images of a man we're keen to identify in connection with the incident, so that we can ensure this doesn’t happen again.
“This incident is a very disappointing way to have started the Fair today, where there are so many examples of good horsemanship, and we know a lot of people will be upset to hear about this.”
Representatives from the traveller community Billy Welch and Bill Lloyd commented:
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms whoever has done this. We are sickened and saddened by the cruelty that this person or persons have shown. We have no hesitation is asking anyone who has any knowledge of this awful event to cooperate fully with police and RSPCA in identifying whoever is responsible.
"If you are in any doubt, please come forward and provide any information you have for the sake of justice and the future of the Fair."
Staff from eight other animal welfare charities attend the Fair each year, alongside the RSPCA.
There will be a vet station at Salt Tip Corner where assistance can be sought for any animal that needs it. The vet station will be staffed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm.