THOUSANDS of traders and spectators will descend on a Hampshire village for its annual equine spectacular.

Wickham Horse Fair, which dates back 800 years, takes place on Friday with members of the traveller community from all over the country attending.

The festival, which includes a funfair and horse run has its roots in the 13th century and is one of just two major horse-trading events in the country.

Police are warning motorists of road closures and possible delays and The Square will be closed to traffic from 4.30am until 8pm.

The A334 Winchester Road will be closed between the traffic signals at Blind Lane and the roundabout junction of the A32.

The nearside lane of the A32 southbound at Hoads Hill, from junction A334 to top of the hill will be used for parking.

Arrangements have been made for horse boxes to be parked on the east side of the A334 between the north end of the square and the junction at Blind Lane and Titchfield Lane.

Any vehicle parked in an unauthorised place will be towed away.

Signage will be placed along the route to provide information about the road closure.

Permits have been provided for residents to allow access through the closure points, although the road immediately adjacent to the entrance to The Square will not be passable due to the presence of horses and crowds in the road.

A dedicated emergency telephone number for unforeseen personal emergencies has been set up for residents in the roads where access and egress to their properties is affected and they have been contacted directly with details.

Motorists who are not going to the fair are advised to allow extra time for their journey.

Supt Alison Heydari said: “This event is steeped in history and we have been working closely with Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council, Wickham Parish Council and other agencies to help maintain a safe environment for visitors and residents to enjoy the day.

“If you are planning to attend the horse fair please familiarise yourself with the road closure and parking arrangements and plan for your journey and attendance accordingly. These arrangements have been made to keep disruption and inconvenience to local people and motorists to a minimum.

“There will be officers in high visibility uniform available throughout the event to respond to any issues that may arise.”