The Fuellers, led by the Master, were well represented at the annual sheep drive over Southwark Bridge on Saturday 27th September 2026
Fueller Carl Lomas wrote:
Master Fueller engaged in one of the oldest trade traditions in the City of London to transport and drive sheep over the river Thames for delivery to the City of London markets for the purpose of delivering trading goods.
The Worshipful Company of Fuellers and the Master Ashutosh Shastri with Andy Miles and the Carmen livery ahead of the trade drive. Transport fuel and trade for a magic ceremonial City event showcasing delivery.
Fueller Carl Lomas, ‘The sheep to be transported were North Country mules, one of the best breeds there is. It was an honour to relive the final mile last mile delivery of the sheep into the City in this most ancient ceremony of trade transport.’
Educator Dr Tracey Worth, ‘It was a final mile to remember and engage with a transport action that pre-dates our modern logistics.’
Livery trade to transport and herd sheep to market across the Thames is a long-established event, celebrating a Freeman’s ancient “right” to bring sheep to market over the Thames, toll free; all in aid of raising funds for The Woolmen Charity and The Lord Mayor’s Appeal. This year’s Sheep Drive took place on Southwark Bridge.
Located on Queen Street and Queen Street Place, the magnificent Livery Fair offers visitors the opportunity to learn all about the Sheep Drive and the wonderful causes it supports and – where livery and specialist wool companies celebrate their trades with interactive displays and sales of their wares. Other fun activities include expert blade shearing displays and some wonderful rare breed sheep!
The Woolmen Sheep Drive & Livery Fair showcases the important enduring contribution of London’s livery companies, from the formation of the City of London in years gone by through to modern times, both in respect of the continuous evolution of sustainable trades and the important charitable endeavours in support of the various challenges we face today.
This charity event, demonstrates a Freeman’s ancient “right” to bring sheep over the Thames.
It is hosted by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen and raises funds for The Woolmen charity and The Lord Mayor’s appeal.
The following images, shows the Master with David Hopkins, Master Woolmen, , France’s UK Ambassador, and of course, some sheep.
Carmen and fueller Masters on Southwark bridge (below)
Fueller Carl Lomas with educator livery Dr Tracey Worth and the Lady Mayur Dame Susan with former Lord Mayor Sir david Wooten talk tactics for herding the sheep (below)
Fueller Carl Lomas with educator livery Dr Tracey Worth and the Lady Mayur Dame Susan with former Lord Mayor Sir david Wooten talk tactics for herding the sheep
Carmen and fueller Masters on Southwark bridge
With thanks to Carl Lomas for the write up and additional pictures