The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is investigating after a horse drowned in the River Eden at Appleby Horse Fair, Cumbria, U.K.

The incident happened on Friday, the second day of the annual event, which runs until June 13.

"The horse was pulled out of the river but unfortunately it was too late," said RSPCA chief inspector Brian Jeffries. "It’s a shocking incident and we are extremely disappointed that it happened.

"Those responsible for the horse have not yet come forward, but we are working with the Appleby Fair community and Cumbria Constabulary to track them down," Jeffries said