Bridgwater Town Council has announced it will carry out a full review after concerns were raised about the sale and welfare of animals at this year’s Bridgwater Fair. The announcement follows social media reports showing animals, including puppies, kittens and chickens, being sold, with images circulating of kittens confined in a crate.
The council has expressed that it takes these concerns seriously and acknowledges the unease among residents and visitors. It described the circumstances at this year’s event as unprecedented and clarified that it does not organise animal sales nor oversee private transactions occurring at the fair.
A spokesperson for the council stated: “Animal welfare is an important issue, and we understand the public’s expectation that appropriate standards are maintained at all times. Bridgwater Fair is one of the country’s oldest fairs, and the council works diligently with numerous partners to ensure the event is safe, well managed and faithful to its traditions.”
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While animals have historically been part of the fair, the council noted it had never before encountered concerns of this scale related to animals other than horses being sold. The horse market and associated trading have long been traditions, attended by members of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities and others on the final Wednesday of September each year. However, these activities develop independently, and the council does not administer or supervise animal sales during the event.
During the fair, council staff and representatives addressed concerns that were brought to their attention. However, they pointed out that given the fair’s large size-covering around 15 acres and extending nearly half a mile-it is not feasible for staff to monitor every area or every interaction at all times.
The council emphasised that enforcement of animal welfare legislation lies with statutory authorities and any alleged breaches should be investigated by these bodies. Nonetheless, the council remains committed to collaborating with relevant authorities and animal welfare organisations to better understand the issues that arose and to identify improvements for future events.
To this end, Bridgwater Town Council will engage in a comprehensive review involving input from Somerset Council, Avon and Somerset Police, the RSPCA, other animal welfare groups, representatives of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community, and other relevant stakeholders. Their insights will help shape recommendations to enhance animal welfare arrangements at upcoming fairs.
The council also urged members of the public to report any animal welfare concerns during future fairs directly to the police or the RSPCA, rather than intervening personally. While intended to protect the animals, independent purchases or removals may unintentionally encourage further trading and complicate investigations.
The council’s goal is to ensure Bridgwater Fair remains a safe, respectful and enjoyable event for all, while preserving a valued local tradition. It affirmed its dedication to working alongside partners to support the fair’s ongoing success for future generations.
Requests for comment have been made to the RSPCA regarding the matter.