EPP’s Steve Merritt joins the historic Woolmen’s Sheep Drive tradition through the heart of London

It is not every day that you see a flock of sheep making its way through the heart of London. But for one Sunday each year, the City’s streets echo to the sound of hooves as the Woolmen’s Sheep Drive brings a centuries-old tradition back to life.

Steve Merritt, Managing Director, European Process Plant Ltd (EPP), specialists in artisan and industrial bakery equipment, joined the procession as a member of the Worshipful Company of Bakers, enjoying the spectacle on a bright autumn Sunday.

Organised by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, the event celebrates London’s long-standing connection with the wool trade. Sheep may be a rare sight in the capital today, but livestock was once a familiar part of city life as animals were driven towards London’s markets.

The modern Sheep Drive recalls the traditional right of Freemen of the City of London to drive sheep across London Bridge without paying a toll. Now held across Southwark Bridge, the event creates a striking contrast between an historic rural custom and the modern skyline of offices, traffic and riverside landmarks.

Participants guide the sheep in a carefully managed procession while the city carries on around them. For a few memorable moments, the scene offers a glimpse of a London from another era.

“It was a real privilege to take part in such a unique experience, although at times it felt more as though we were chasing the sheep than skilfully herding them!” said Steve. “It was a fascinating reminder of London’s history and of the important contribution the Livery Companies continue to make to the life of the City.”

The day also featured the Livery Fair, where visitors could learn more about wool, farming and traditional crafts. The Worshipful Company of Bakers was out in force, with a busy stall offering a tempting selection of breads and cakes, a fitting contribution to a celebration of London’s working heritage.

Beyond the spectacle, the Sheep Drive also supports charitable causes, including The Woolmen Charity and The Lord Mayor’s Appeal. It is a tradition that not only celebrates the past but also makes a positive contribution to communities today.

For Steve, the event combined history, fellowship and a little good-humoured sheep wrangling. For EPP, it was also a welcome reminder of the enduring links between food, craft, trade and the institutions that have helped shape London over many centuries.

To find more about EPP and its wide range of bakery equipment, visit www.eppltd.co.uk. Or to find out more about the event visit: https://www.woolmen.com/sheep-drive.