A Historic Tradition in Peril
The annual Wickham Horse Fair, a tradition that has endured for over 750 years, has once again sparked controversy among local residents. This year, the event, which draws thousands of visitors to the small Hampshire village of Wickham, has led to significant disruptions, with parking chaos reported across the area.
Wickham, a village with a population of just 2,000 people, transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the fair. Horses and ponies line the streets, and their owners sell them to eager buyers. Attendees can be seen strolling through the square carrying long whips, while children are given the chance to drive the majestic creatures in front of onlookers. The sleepy village comes to a standstill as roads, shops, and pubs close for the day, replaced by a funfair atmosphere.
However, not all residents are pleased with the event. Some locals have expressed frustration over the lack of respect shown at the fair, particularly regarding the parking of vehicles near the town’s graveyard and on a World War II memorial. Nigel Prior, a member of the village and district neighbourhood watch, described the situation as a “nightmare everywhere.”
He recounted an incident where a driver parked near the church, claiming it was not a graveyard. “And he just moved the parking sign and parked up,” Prior said. He added that the disrespect was evident when cars were parked on the memorial garden, which is meant to honor the village’s fallen war heroes.
Another resident shared their frustration, saying, “I don’t like it and I don’t go. I just stay in and shut my doors and windows. I seal in for it.” They mentioned that places are closed for a reason, and they avoid the event altogether.
The History and Impact of the Fair
The origins of the Wickham Horse Fair date back to the 13th century when Roger De Syres obtained a royal charter from King Henry III to hold a weekly market in the village center. Over the years, the event has evolved into a vibrant celebration of tradition and culture. However, the fair’s popularity has also brought challenges, particularly in terms of parking and road closures.
As the event concludes, some of the village’s busiest roads remain closed until Thursday morning, including the A334 between Blind Lane and Titchfield Lane, A32, and the busy Fareham and Winchester Roads. Many bus routes have also been diverted, causing inconvenience for residents and visitors alike.
The village’s World War II memorial, located in the churchyard of St Nicholas Parish Church, is constructed of Portland stone and stands on a plinth commemorating the village’s fallen war heroes. The names of those who lost their lives are inscribed on its steps.
Mr Prior, who lives locally, described an incident where a driver parked on the memorial garden, despite efforts to prevent it. “We put a big rock there to stop them getting on it, but of course it was not big enough so they just moved it,” he said. He emphasized the lack of respect shown towards the memorial, highlighting that six cars were parked on it.
Despite these issues, Mr Prior noted that there have been no major incidents at the event for the last nine years. He recalled that the last one saw someone shot in the eye with a catapult, but he admitted that most of the time, the event is manageable.
Mixed Reactions from Locals
While some residents express frustration, others view the event as a cherished part of their community. Claire, a 66-year-old local, advised new attendees to come with an “open mind,” acknowledging that the traveler community has a different way of life, especially concerning their animals.
“I suppose I do enjoy it. I am not a gypsy or a traveller. I am a local person,” she said. “Sometimes their way of life is harsher than other people’s, especially towards their animals. I think you have to come to this event with an open mind. It’s their way of life and I think we should encompass everybody’s way of life.”
Meanwhile, Diane, a 60-year-old local, described the event as an “eye opener.” She admitted she would not feel safe attending in the evening but found the daytime activities interesting.
Despite the challenges, some local businesses have embraced the fair. Vicky Herbert, owner of Pirate Pastries, insisted the fair is “100 per cent” a positive for business. “We have been here nearly two years and I live next door so I am very local,” she said. “I was here and just thought, let’s open next year. Let’s give it a go.”
Julie Churchill, owner of the local fish and chip shop, echoed this sentiment, stating that staying open during the fair allows her to connect with the traveler community. “We have been for years and years. It’s lovely to see old and new faces,” she said.
A Celebration of Tradition
The fair continues to draw visitors from around the country, with fun fairs, burger vans, and other stalls setting up shop. Lee Cookson, visiting the fair for the first time, praised the event, calling it a “good day out” and emphasizing the friendly nature of the travelers.
Nicki Oliver, a local grandmother who has attended the fair for the last 40 years, spoke of her joy at the long-standing event. “It is just tradition and I think the traveller community have a great community. They love it,” she said.
Despite the challenges, many residents acknowledge that the event is a part of their heritage. One resident living close to the heart of the action said, “It’s been here for hundreds of years! We normally go away for it, prior to that we’ve been in the thick of it. But I enjoy watching it, yes I have to move my car, but that’s fine.”
Hampshire Police confirmed that they are working with key stakeholders to ensure the event is safe and enjoyable for everyone. They advised motorists to plan their journeys carefully and keep up to date with planned road closures.
