This year’s annual sheep drive over the Thames took place across Southwark Bridge on September 29. This event celebrates the medieval tradition of a freeman’s right to bring sheep to market toll free, and raises money for the Woolmen charity and Lord Mayor’s Appeal. More than 1,000 freemen of the City, including the actor Damian Lewis, drove sheep across the bridge.
As part of the drive, the Livery Fairs takes place celebrating the 45,000 sheep farmers in the UK and the associated trades. Livery and specialist wool companies showcase their products and there are shearing displays and rare breeds of sheep on show.
This year was particularly special for Romney Tweed, based on Romney Marsh, as the lord mayor of the City of London, Michael Mainelli and the lady mayoress were wearing their Romney Tweed waistcoats. This tweed was first designed by Romney Tweed weaver Rosie Green for Alderman Alison Gowman, (former director of Romney Tweed) during her first year as sheriff in 2020/1.
This month is wool month, you can find more information here.
Image Credits: Romney Tweed .