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A comprehensive new website has been launched to give information for local residents, visitors and traders about this year's Appleby Fair.

www.applebyfair.org (external link) is the official website produced by the public sector and voluntary organisations involved in co-ordinating the annual gathering of Gypsies and Travellers, which is the biggest of its kind in Britain.

The website is designed to make the Fair as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone, while aiming to reduce the impact the Fair has on local people. As well as explaining what the Fair is and its history, it also gives a range of information about the new arrangements for the Fair, including:

- New licensing scheme for approved campsites

- Alcohol licensing arrangements

- Permitted dates for temporary stopping places en route to Appleby

- Transport and travel information

- Information for market and street traders, including a new pre-booking system for anyone selling food

The website also features an interactive map detailing toilets, car parks, road closures and camp sites. It also gives advice on responsible and respectful behaviour, safety information and animal welfare advice.

The 2009 Fair takes place from Thursday June 4 to Wednesday June 10, with most people arriving on the Thursday and leaving by Monday morning. 

Kevin Douglas, chief executive of Eden District Council and Chair of the Multi Agency Strategic Co-ordinating Group, said:

"This website is not aimed at promoting the Fair, but at providing the right information for the right people. Communication is essential to help the Fair run as smoothly and safely as possible. This website helps local people plan for the impact of the Fair and visitors to plan for their stay.

"We are making good progress on our efforts to make sure the Fair’s impact on local residents is minimised. For the first time this year all campsites have had to get planning permission and campsite owners have had to provide the right toilet and water facilities. We have also introduced a permit scheme for food sellers. We are asking everyone to expect and respect change in the way the Fair is co-ordinated."

Postcards advertising the website will be distributed to Gypsies and Travellers before the Fair. The postcards, which were funded by the Carlisle and Eden Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, will also be made available locally through libraries and Tourist Information Centres.

For those people who do not have a computer at home, local libraries offer a free 'internet taster' session where library staff can talk people through how the internet works and help people navigate their way around www.applebyfair.org (external link)

ENDS

Media enquiries to Gareth Cosslett, News Manager on 01228 226332