The Homeland actor drove a flock of sheep across one of the capital’s famous waterway crossings on Sunday (September 29) to continue a unique London tradition that dates back to the 12th century.
The annual London Sheep Drive sees 50 north of England mule sheep guided over Southwark Bridge each year to honour sheep seller’s in the past bringing their livestock into the city to market.
In medieval times, while locals would have to pay a bridge toll to cross the river, Freemen of the City aka traders were exempt. In celebration sheep are still driven across the Thames by various Freemen of the City each year and have become known for their celebrity sheepherders.
This year’s famous sheep guide was award winning actor Damian Lewis known for his TV roles in Homeland, Band Of Brothers and Billions.
Incase you missed it here’s a few snaps from the day of Lewis in action:
1. Damian Lewis really made herding a flock of seven sheep look easy
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2. Lewis is London local having grown up in the north of the city in the St John’s Wood area
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3. Each year 50 north of England mule sheep guided over Southwark Bridge as part of the annual Sheep Drive
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4. The London Sheep Drive become an annual tradition after it was started in 2013
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