THOUSANDS of people are expected to gather for an annual horse fair this weekend.

It will be the fifth year that the Seagrave Horse Fair is held on private land at Checker Leazes, on the outskirts of West Auckland, County Durham.

The event is held from today until Monday, and one of the highlights is a horse and trap ride on Sunday morning.

Organisers have worked with police following traffic problems last year when 90 horses and traps took part.

This year, a new route has been agreed, in which the ride will head towards Evenwood, then on to Cockfield and Wackerfield, and back to the site of the fair using the A688 for about a kilometre.

No roads are expected to be closed for the 90-minute procession, but Durham Police officers will be stationed along the route to ensure traffic problems are kept to a minimum.

Inspector Ian Butler said he had worked closely with organisers this year.

He said: "The horse fair has become a very popular event over the last few years and brings a significant number of visitors to the area.

"But last year, some local people raised concerns in relation to a number of issues, especially the problems on the Sunday caused by the horse and trap ride.

"We have listened to those concerns and liaised on a regular basis with the organisers and we hope the change of route will prevent the sort of disruption experienced in the past."