Weekend of events sparks traffic warning

Thousands will take part in a motorcycle cavalcade to Barrow in memory of Hairy Biker Dave Myers, pictured right alongside Si King

Road users are being warned of heavy traffic in Cumbria as three major events are planned over the weekend.

On Saturday, thousands of motorcyclists will take part in "Dave Day", celebrating the life of Hairy Biker Dave Myers who died from cancer earlier this year.

Appleby Horse Fair, the annual gathering of Gypsies and travellers, is continuing until Wednesday.

In addition, Windermere is playing host to the Great North Swim - the biggest open water swim in the UK.

Other events across the county include a car festival at the Westmorland Show Ground, a farming auction near Junction 36 of the M6 and, further north, the Cumberland Show.

Cumbria Police and National Highways have said there is likely to be congestion and advised drivers to plan extra time for their journeys.

Thousands of Gypsies and travellers have already arrived at the Appleby Horse Fair

People are also being warned to "Think Bike", with motorcyclists travelling to the county from all over Britain in honour of the late-TV star Dave Myers.

They will be taking part in a cavalcade, heading from Junction M6 along the A590 to his home town of Barrow where they are expected to arrive late afternoon.

Appleby Horse Fair, which opened on Friday, is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Europe, attracting about 10,000 Gypsies and travellers and up to 30,000 other visitors.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Dave Stalker said: “We look forward to welcoming a large number of visitors to Cumbria in what will undoubtedly be a busy weekend for most of the county.

“[This] also means our transport networks will be busier than usual and, along with our partners, we are encouraging people to plan their journeys in advance.

“We will have officers at the events to provide help, advice and reassurance.”