THOUSANDS battled against the wind and rain last week to attend the popular biannual Stow Horse Fair.

Travelling and gypsy folk from around the country turned up to the field near Maugersbury Road on Thursday, May 8. The event has been held at the site twice a year, in May and October, for the past 537 years.

Market stalls were busy with travellers despite the rain, wind and mud with many people meeting with old friends as well as buying and selling horses.

The venue for the upcoming October event is still in doubt as plans to build a doctors surgery, 10 houses and 300-space car park on the field are soon to be submitted to Cotswold District Council.

Chairman of Stow Town Council Alun White said the fair was a very quiet occasion.

"The weather was rough and lots of the travelling community left quite early. It was a good, quiet occasion though, extremely quiet," he said. "Usually there is a bit of bustle."

Inspector Karen Ellis of Gloucestershire Police said there were no major incidents or arrests during the event and thanked everyone involved for working with the police.

"We are pleased to report that last week's Stow Fair passed off peacefully and no arrests were made," she said. "High visibility policing and collaboration with partner agencies ensured that the event was as safe as possible for everyone involved and has proved a success with both Stow residents and visitors.

"We look forward to keeping this positive partnership working in place for future events."