Hold ups

Instead of my usual train journey south to visit family S took me by car so we took a short diversion and encountered some interesting hold ups.
First we were dismayed to find the road ahead appeared to be closed without any prior warning. Then a flock of sheep appeared and were escorted across the road before the shepherd opened the gate and let us pass but I was too late to grab the camera to get the best picture (Extra)

A little further on we passed several groups of horses nibbling the grass on the roadside verges beside traditional gypsy caravans. Then at times we had to patiently wait as we were held up by horses pulling the caravans. They were returning from the annual horse fair held each June at Appleby in Cumbria. Since 1685 thousands of gypsies and travellers from all over Britain and even parts of Europe meet at the largest event of its kind in Europe. Over 12000 primarily


gather to buy and sell horses, meet with friends and relations, and celebrate their culture. These different ethnic groups share a similar lifestyle and culture, and many Gypsies and Travellers regard Appleby Fair as the most important date in the calendar, and it remains one of the largest of their gatherings. An estimated 25-30,000 non-Gypsy people visit the fair during the week.


Some of the bow top caravans were beautifully decorated and one man proudly showed me the caravan that he had just built and had yet to paint. They seemed very friendly and I believe are proud of their traditions.