The London Sheep Drive happens every year in the month of September, around the last weekend of the month. It’s a great day out for everyone in aid of two amazing causes. The annual Woolmen Sheep Drive and Livery Fair is in aid of the Woolmen charity and the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.
The London Sheep Drive can be dated back to medieval times; the sheep farmers drove their livestock across London Bridge into the city of London to sell them at the market. With the introduction of motorised vehicles in the 20th century, the tradition began to die out. To ensure these rights were maintained, the two companies teamed up in 2013 and arranged the first official sheep drive for the Freemen of the City. The event has been very successful ever since and continues still to this day with it selling out every year!
Caitlin, my weaving tutor, told me about this and asked me if I would like to go. At first, I felt very nervous and cautious because London is a busy place for me, full of loud noises and lots of people. Then I thought about it for a couple of days and spoke to my mum and dad about it. And that was what changed my mind. They said to me it will be a shame to miss out, it would be a fantastic experience for you and a wonderful opportunity, you would be representing the college, go for it. So I did!
The day started with me getting up early and going to Stroud train station to meet Paul Chadwick. We travelled by bus to Swindon train station and then caught the train from there to Paddington station in London. I really enjoyed the train ride; on the way to London, I played sudoku and bought myself a coffee and shortbread to enjoy on the journey. We had to take the Bakerloo line and change to another tube to Tower Bridge; the tube was crowded and hot. At Tower Bridge we went through Borough Market and saw a lot of tourist attractions, such as the Golden Hinde, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge itself.
We walked a long way to get to Southwark Bridge and the walk itself was really interesting, and a chance to experience London life. Eventually we got to our destination. At first glance it was a lot to take in because of all the people but then I spotted Adam Henson. It was cool seeing someone famous.
We then met up with the Ruskin Mill College team at the tent and had a brief talk about what I was going to do. Caitlin set me a project of weaving on a circular frame loom. It took a while to remember how to do it but once I started it all came back to me.
Many people came up to me and asked what I was doing and some even took photos. I explained how to weave and sometimes I even taught them how to weave as well.
It was a long day but really enjoyable and a great experience. Thank you Ruskin Mill College for letting me have this wonderful opportunity.
Henry
We have been very lucky to be sponsored for several years by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen to host a stall at the Sheep Drive and Livery Fair in London. At the fair we have the opportunity to demonstrate some of the practical skills that students learn at college in their textiles sessions, such as spinning and weaving wool from our sheep. We are joined by colleagues from Glasshouse College and it’s a really nice opportunity to collaborate, share skills and inspire one another. We endeavour to bring students to the fair, to promote the college, experience working on a stall, interact with the public, demonstrate their weaving skills and experience being in the city. This year Henry joined us and proved to be a great ambassador for the college.
The sheep drive is held annually at Southwark Bridge, more information can be found here Woolmen Sheep Drive & Livery Fair, London – Annual Sheep Drive Across London Bridge.
Caitlin Bently, Senior Tutor
We are very grateful to the Worshipful Company of Woolmen for sponsoring our stand again this year and particularly to the Master, David Hopkins, for his continued support of Ruskin Mill Trust. It is always a joy to join in the Sheep Drive and Livery Fair each September.
Janine Christley, Director of Fundraising