A GATHERING of travellers from throughout the region saw a spectacular convoy of horses and traps set off from Hull Road today.

The impromptu but peaceful meeting took residents and police by surprise as about 30 horse and traps and hundreds of travellers stopped at Tang Hall Working Mens Club for more than an hour this afternoon.

Travellers came from as far as Durham and Halifax for the event, which began in Murton and ended with the vehicles, many laden with adults and children, making their way past the University of York to the village of Heslington.

Officers at the scene said they were previously unaware the event was taking place. The Press understands it may have been held as a tribute to a deceased member of the travelling community.