Wickham, Hampshire, Saturday 20th May 2017 – The annual Wickham Horse Fair attracted hundreds of visitors to the picturesque Hampshire village this weekend. With a history spanning over 800 years, the event remains one of the United Kingdom’s largest horse trading gatherings, drawing traveller communities from across the country.
Although there is no formal organiser, the Wickham Horse Fair has become a national highlight, alongside just one other major horse trading event in the UK. Locals and visitors lined the village streets, enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with colourful stalls, equine activities, and traditional customs.
Despite the festive mood, tensions rose at times. Officers from Hampshire Constabulary quickly intervened to break up several scuffles, preventing any escalation. At the same time, the RSPCA, led by Superintendent Alison Heydari, stepped in to rescue a number of horses found to be in poor condition.
Superintendent Heydari commented, “The event is steeped in history for Wickham. We’ve been working closely with Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council, Wickham Parish Council, and local licensed premises to keep everyone safe and make sure the day runs smoothly.”
While the fair has generally remained peaceful in recent years, it has faced difficulties in the past. Notably, in 2013, six individuals were convicted following a public order incident involving dangerous catapults that threatened the event’s reputation.
This year, however, the strong presence of police and council officials helped maintain order, allowing the Wickham Horse Fair to preserve its traditional appeal with minimal disruption. The event continues to be a cherished, if occasionally spirited, fixture in the British social calendar.
Originally published by UKNIP.
