Poland's oldest horse fair under way

Europe's top horse fair is under way in the town of Skaryszew, central Poland, with 10,000 people expected to attend the auctions.



As tradition dictates, the fair always begins on the first Monday of Lent, and organisers claim that the event is the largest of its kind in Europe.

Local authorities have attempted to make the event a little less old-fashioned this year, after animal rights activists protested that horses were not being adequately treated.

Skaryszew mayor Ireneusz Kumega has stated that the terrain used for the fair is properly fenced off this year, and that water and lighting have been provided.

Folk bands will be playing at the fair, and visitors can observe the old-fashioned horse-trading custom of closing a deal over a shot of vodka.

Several hundred horses are expected to be sold.

It has been claimed that the first horse fairs took place in Skaryszew in 1432. Privileges were confirmed by King Wlayslaw IV in 1633. (nh)