A TV shepherdess will lead a procession of sheep over Southwark Bridge next month in a celebration of the importance of wool and to raise money for charity.
Amanda Owen, who appears on Channel 5 as the Yorkshire Shepherdess, is coming to the borough on September 26 to lead the procession over the bridge, which symbolises the right of the freemen of the City of London to drive sheep into the City. You can become a freeman by paying a fee or you can be made one as a reward for public service.
The annual event is organised by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, the 2021 Sheep Drive and Livery Fair. Now in its ninth year, previous leaders of the procession have been TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh and former politician Michael Portillo.
Amanda Owen said: “When the Sheep Drive & Livery Fair invited me to be their guest, saying yes was an easy decision to make. This event is so prestigious to be involved in, one which carries years of history and I’m so proud to be able to lead the first drive of sheep across Southwark Bridge on 26th September.
“Sheep are central to my life and this celebration of them will be a day to remember.”
The Livery Fair is a showcase for many of the UK’s 110 traditional livery companies to demonstrate their ancient and modern skills. The fair will also have stalls showing how the importance of wool.
Alderman Sir David Wootton, Master of the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, said: “We are delighted to welcome Amanda Owen to shepherd our sheep expertly over Southwark Bridge.
“As we re-enact this ancient tradition, amidst Livery Fair displays, I’m sure the Livery’s long-standing contribution to the fabric of the City and wider community through trade and philanthropy will resonate with us all.
“Wool, with its the enduring and sustainable qualities, being just one of those trades, is as relevant to our needs today as it was centuries ago.”
The day will also raise money for the Worshipful Company of Woolmen’s Charitable Trust and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.
Alongside the right to drive sheep into the City, other rights of freemen include being able to choose a noose made of silk rather than rope if they were convicted of a crime and sentenced to death by hanging.
Freemen were entitled to ‘carry a naked sword in public’. If found to be ‘drunk and incapable’ by the City of London Police, a Freeman would be sent home rather than to the cells overnight.