More than half a million flock to Hull Fair

More than 550,000 people attended this year's Hull Fair, according to the city council.

The centuries-old annual event, which is based in Walton Street and known as one of the largest travelling fairs in Europe, took place between 9 and 17 October.

Hull City Council leader Mike Ross said: "We think over half a million people came along this year and as far as we know it all went swimmingly."

The 732nd Hull Fair had more than 300 attractions, ranging from rollercoasters and towering thrill rides to classic carousels and family-friendly games, according to Visit Hull.

Ross said the number of people who attended this year's fair was "broadly in line with last year".

"What we do know is people come here from all over the place," he added.

"I think Hull Fair is an institution in the city. It has got over 700 years of history. I think it means a lot to the city.

"I think people would want to see it carry on for many years to come."

He added that plans were already under way to organise next year's fair.

"It is such a big operation it's an all-year-round thing that has to be planned for," he said.

Humberside Police's Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker said: "As a yearly highlight for the city, Hull Fair is one of the largest events we police in our region, and I'm pleased to say there were only a small number of minor incidents.

"We had officers and staff on the ground, and our command suite running for the whole time that the fair was open."

Police said only four arrests were made during the event, including for assault and being drunk and disorderly. Forty-two dispersal orders were handed out.

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