Thousands witness annual London sheep drive
© Natasha Lingard More than 10,000 people attended the annual sheep drive and livery fair on Southwark Bridge in London last weekend, as the Worshipful Company of Woolmen re-enacted a tradition that dates back to Medieval times.
According to ancient laws, Freeman of the City of London had a “right” to bring sheep over the Thames to the Smithfield meat market without having to pay any tolls.
The livery company revived this tradition 13 years ago as part of an effort to promote sheep farming, celebrate wool and raises money for charity.
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Master of The Worshipful Company of Woolmen David Hopkins said: “People like to see sheep in the City of London, against the background of buildings like the Shard.
“I think they enjoy it very much – and they also like to see people like me, dressed up in medieval outfits.”
The freemen were assisted in herding the sheep by celebrity guests, including TV presenter Gloria Hunniford © This Media Larke
The freemen were assisted in herding the sheep by celebrity guests, including television presenter Gloria Hunniford (pictured above), broadcaster Angela Rippon, and former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Philips.
Around 60 sheep, mostly North of England Mules, were taken on short walks across the bridge throughout the day.
Sheep farmer David Seamark said: “A lot of London people will have never seen livestock before.”
He hoped the drive would encourage more people to buy woollen garments and use wool as insulation.
Mr Seamark’s 18-month-old sheep had been preparing for the big day and getting used to crowds by attending village fetes and arena displays over the summer.
The ewes are expected to bear lambs next March.
Wool business owner and stallholder at the adjoining livery fair, Sharon Smith, said: “It makes people more aware about Welsh wool and who we are.
“It educates people and helps to pay for the sheep over winter. It’s a great event.”
