THOUSANDS of people are expected to line the streets of a Hampshire village for an equine spectacular this weekend.

The annual Wickham Horse Fair in Wickham, near Fareham, dates back more than 800 years and is attended by traveller communities from across the country.

While there has been no formal organiser for the event, the event has evolved to become just one of two major horse trading events in the country.

The RSPCA and Hampshire Constabulary will both have a team of officers attending on the day.

PHOTOS: WICKHAM HORSE FAIR THROUGH THE YEARS

Superintendent Alison Heydari from Hampshire Constabulary said: “The event is steeped in history for Wickham and we have been working closely with Hampshire County Council, Winchester City Council and Wickham Parish Council as well as locally licensed premises to help maintain a safe environment for visitors and residents to enjoy the day.”

Road closures will be in place between 4.30am and 8pm around the Square in Wickham and the A334 Winchester Road between Blind Lane and the A32 junction, although permits have been provided for residents.

The event has largely been peaceful in recent years, though six people were convicted after the 2013 event for various offences after a public order incident involving high powered catapults.

Visitors are advised not to bring their dogs.