The history of the gypsy horse is embodied in Appleby Horse Fair, the largest traditional horse fair of its kind in the world. Set up by charter under the reign of James II in 1685, it has been an annual event since that time. Originally a venue for the trading of all types of livestock and general merchandise, its popularity with the vast numbers of gypsies who would come each year eventually led to the occasion being known as a special horse fair. Today, Appleby Fair is the venue of one the largest remaining gatherings of Romany and gypsy people. The event is held during the second week of June, beginning on the Wednesday of that week with the main horse sale on the Tuesday of the following week. Harness races and celebrations lead up to this sale day and horses are seen trotting up and down the lanes in order to show them off prior to the sales. The field, which is the main site for the participants, is found on the outskirts of Appleby. It was originally known as Gallows Hill, due to the nature of its usage in earlier times. However, it is now called Fair Hill and looks West over the town of Appleby and East toward the Pennines. Gypsy families travel to Appleby to meet up with old friends and conduct business. Appleby survived an attempt at closure by the Westmorland Borough Council in 1965.