It is not clear when the last sheep were driven across London Bridge on their way to market but the practise had all but stopped by the advent of motorised transport in the early 20th century. But sensing an opportunity to raise funds for their charity and to have some fun, the Worshipful Company of Woolmen inaugurated an annual sheep drive in 2013 and it has become a fixed point in the Livery calendar ever since.
And it certainly is fun! Accompanied by the Mistress and our two children, I donned my robes and badge to join many others to drive some sheep across the bridge! Expertly organised by the Woolmen looking splendid in their red cloaks, participants are arranged into small groups with a very precise time slot (11:21 to be exact!). The bridge (west pavement only – not the whole carriageway!) is divided into four and so one drives the sheep a quarter of the way across. Protected by strong barriers the sheep – North Country Mules if you must know – were very cooperative and calm and we had no difficulty keeping them moving. But this was only early on in the day; by the late afternoon they were probably getting very bored.
Once driven, many photographs ensued and certificates to celebrate our success as expert sheep handlers were produced. The whole event had a carnival atmosphere and the first drive of the day was undertaken by Alan Titchmarsh who stayed on to meet the crowds and the media. As too did the Lord Mayor, the new Sherriff’s and many other Livery Masters all in their respective gowns and robes. A wonderful sight!
Well done to the Woolmen for all the hard work in organising and to the sheep for being so well behaved. A great way to raise funds and to perpetuate an urban myth about Freemen being able to drive their sheep across London Bridge!
Photographs show the Master, Mistress and others in full driving mode and with our daughters Holly and Emily proudly displaying our certificates!
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