Boys, 10, arrested on suspicion of burglary in Kirkby Lonsdale

Three 10-year-old boys have been arrested on suspicion of burglary in Kirkby Lonsdale.

Cumbria Police officers arrested three boys on Friday (May 23), as part of the policing operation ahead of Appleby Horse Fair.

Police received multiple reports reporting a group of boys causing criminal damage at a caravan park in Kirkby Lonsdale.

Officers were also called shortly after at around 12:40pm with a report of a burglary at a premises on Lunefield Drive, Kirkby Lonsdale.

Two boys, aged 10, were arrested on suspicion of burglary and a third boy, also 10, was arrested on suspicion of burglary, criminal damage, and an offence of racially aggravated public order.

All have been released on conditional bail pending further enquiries.

Superintendent Lee Skelton, Silver Commander for Appleby Horse Fair said: "As we head towards the 2025 Appleby Horse Fair, officers are working to identify and take enforcement action against the minority of individuals who travel to the county intent on committing offences or those who come here after committing offences elsewhere.

“This will enable the vast majority of people attending the Fair, who are law-abiding, to enjoy it.

"Where there is evidence of criminality, officers will be swift in taking appropriate action to ensure everyone has a safe Appleby Fair."

Cumbria Police said they were also aware of concerns being expressed on social media in response to the handcuffing and search of two boys at Kirkby Lonsdale.

At around 11:30am on Thursday (May 22), Cumbria Police received a call for service from a member of the public reporting a group of boys on the path by the River Lune one of whom threatened the caller with a penknife.

Officers carried out a search in the area and located two boys based on the descriptions provided.

Due to the report of a knife, the boys were handcuffed for their and officers safety while the searches were completed.

A search was carried out and no knife located, and the handcuffs removed.