Barnstaple fair makes history

THIS year's Barnstaple fair and carnival passed without any arrests – possibly for the first time ever – say police. Despite thousands of people passing through the town during the four-day event, only four people were ordered to stay away due to minor an

THIS year's Barnstaple fair and carnival passed without any arrests - possibly for the first time ever - say police.

Despite thousands of people passing through the town during the four-day event, only four people were ordered to stay away due to minor anti-social behaviour incidents.

"Over the last three or four years we have seen a decline in the number of incidents and this year there were no arrests at all," said PC Terry Hodgson, beat manager for Instow, Fremington and Bickington.

"Only four orders were issued, none of which were breached. Three were issued under the Section 30 dispersal powers and one was issued for an alcohol-related incident under Section 27.

"There was one issue with a lost purse and we were called to reunite a number of lost children with their parents or carers.

"This year's fair seemed larger than in previous years and it was a really good-natured and enjoyable event," added PC Hodgson.

"It was a great opportunity for beat managers and PCSOs to meet up with residents from their respective beats and police would like to thank the local councils, the Showman's Guild, fair-goers and the wider public for their cooperation.