IT is a tradition as old as the village itself and no amount of spring rain could keep the crowds away.

Thousands of people descended on Wickham at the weekend for the annual horse fair.

They came from near and far to talk about all things equine, trade secrets, have a laugh, and make a sale or two.

Hundreds of people watched as the age-old tradition of riding ponies bareback along Winchester Road was carried out.

While that was going on an assortment of horses - from Shetlands to Shires - were paraded around the streets for all to see.

Mike Coxon, 54, from Bristol, said it was all about tradition. He explained: "This is the second time I've come to the Wickham Horse Fair. I keep horses and it's nice to see what's out there and who has what. It's also all about the tradition. Wickham has been running a long time."

While Ron Jeffries, from Sussex, said: "I've been talking to people who have come down from Newcastle, the Midlands and also from Liverpool. This horse fair has a good name for itself and is always a good day out."

Ensuring the Wickham Horse Fair went off smoothly was the responsibility of Inspector Sean Moore, of Hampshire police.

He said: "We had no more officers on the beat this year than last year, that is about 70 officers. The fair has kept very much to the same format and our role was essentially to ensure it went off without incident."

Despite the showery weather, thousands of people visited the fair, which dates back to the 12th century when it was given a Royal Charter.

Now it is one of only two major horse fairs still running in the country.

Representatives from the RSPCA were also at the fair looking after the welfare of the animals and traffic was diverted around the village.