A HISTORIC tradition afforded to only a few dignitaries is to be revived in Wimborne this month.

For the first time in living memory, sheep will be driven through the town centre by Freemen Anthony Oliver and Grant Bocking and Freewoman Margery Ryan on Saturday, April 29.

The ancient privilege was traditionally granted to those awarded the title of Freeman.

Farmers taking sheep to market would have had to pay a charge levied by the council or the town crier to drive sheep through Wimborne.

Freemen were allowed to drive their livestock in the town for free.

The event this month has been organised by Wimborne's mayor Councillor Sue Cook, who will use it to raise funds for her chosen charities, the Dorset Youth Marching Band, the Priest's House Museum and the Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community.

Mr Oliver said: "Two flocks of sheep supplied by farmer John Wood of Merley Hall Farm will be used.

"The sheep will be driven from the Cornmarket through part of the High Street and into Crown Mead and over the new Waitrose Bridge into Willow Walk."

The first flock to go through the town will be led by Cllr Cook.

She will be challenged at the bridge by current town crier Chris Brown before paying him the charge.

The second flock will be led by the Freemen and Freewoman. When challenged by Mr Brown, the trio will provide their proof of exemption from paying.

The sheep will then be driven over the bridge and gathered into pens at Willow Walk.

Members of the Dorset Youth Marching Band will perform near the pens from 10.15am, with the sheep expected to arrive at 11am.

However, Mr Oliver warned: "All timings are approximate bearing in mind animals are involved."

All are welcome to attend the event, which will begin in the Cornmarket at around 10.30am.