Thousands of travellers, gypsies and tourists have descended on the picturesque town of Appleby-in-Westmorland for its annual horse fair. The world's biggest gathering of its kind, the fair is expected to attract about 10,000 gypsies and travellers and a further 30,000 visitors.

The fair is held in the Cumbrian market town every year in early June. Gypsies and Irish travellers come from all over Britain to buy and sell horses, meet friends and potential wives or husbands, and celebrate Romany culture.

The horses are washed in the River Eden and groomed before being ridden at high speed along the "mad mile" for the viewing of potential buyers.

This year's fair runs from 4 to 10 June. IBTimes UK shares some of the sights from the first day.