A Sunday well-spent in Southwark

Let’s be honest, the sheep is a “thing”. Many people, not just Freemen, are fascinated by the idea and it could, arguably, be only something the British would still do. But the rights and privileges afforded Freemen allows a small gathering of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers to undertake a short stroll across Southwark Bridge.

The leader of our herd was the new Master, Richard Charlesworth MVO , and his lovely wife, Zoë, ably joined by a small selection of Freemen and partners, myself also with my daughter eagerly participating.

The day began with a gathering of Coachmakers at Walbrook, a ward of London now all but lost save for a few old maps. After some paperwork, wandering around sheep-enthused stalls and a chance to catch up with fellow Liverymen and families we were off to fulfil our duties for the day.

The enthusiasm for walking a few sheep across one of the bridges of London cannot be under-estimated, nor the sense of anticipation leading up and the fun in doing so. But where history remains, change is always never far away. Because of traffic disruption issues, the event now uses Southwark Bridge as its route, in reality a better bridge and venue for all the stalls and sheep-shearing displays

We began with a walk to our waiting point, the sheep penned-in adjacent. After a few photographs and a briefing, we were then led along a path to wait and join the herd. The day was warm and bright so very much perfect weather for the outing.

Once we were let through the elongated enclosure that covers the entire western footpath of the bridge, we were met by some fine show sheep who seemed to be revelling in their day out, trotting back and forth across the bridge. In the safe hands of three qualified shepherds, the Coachmaker shepherds made their way, with sheep, across and back over the bridge. Swapping for photos as we did.

It is a strange thing to do on a Sunday, perhaps. But also has a certain appeal and offers the chance to meet fellow members of the company, which must always be a positive thing.

Our thanks, as always to the Worshipful Company of Woolmen who made the event much more than the task at hand and were well turned out in numbers, making it a thoroughly enjoyable day.