Motorists in Northumberland are being urged to show care when passing horse-drawn wagons, as the Appleby Horse Fair begins next month.

Traditional wagons, Known as Vardos, will be spotted across the county over the next few weeks.

Residents are encouraged to pass Vardos slowly and with enough room.

The fair is scheduled from Thursday, June 6 to Wednesday, June 12, but the migration usually starts 10 days before and ends 10 days after these dates.

Major routes likely to be affected are A69 (Newcastle to Hexham), A695 (Ryton to Hexham), A686 (Haltwhistle to Alston and return), B6305 (Hexham to Langley), and 'B' routes through Ponteland, Belsay, Matfen, Heddon-on-the-Wall, and Horsley to Hexham.

The annual Appleby Horse Fair is a historic event, existing under the protection of a Charter granted by James II since 1685, attracting roughly 5,000 travellers from across the UK and Europe.

Participants converge on Appleby-In-Westmorland, Cumbria, to trade horses.

June is also Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month, commemorating the histories and cultural experiences of these communities.

This year's theme, 'What does family mean to you?’ will examine family structures and relationships.

For driving advice and directions, motorists can visit www.applebyfair.org.

Meanwhile, details about the route plan can be gained from Northumberland County Council Gypsy Roma Traveller liaison officer at 07867670456.