HUNDREDS of people flocked to the streets of Wimborne to watch as sheep were driven through the town.

It was the first time in living memory that sheep were driven through the town centre.

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

The event was organised by Wimborne's Mayor Sue Cook, who led the first herd from the Cornmarket through part of the High Street and into Crown Mead and over the new Waitrose Bridge into Willow Walk.

She was stopped at the bridge by current town crier Chris Brown and his assistant Melvin Gudger and ordered to pay two shillings in order to cross with her flock.

Freemen Anthony Oliver and Grant Bocking, and Freewoman Margery Ryan led the second flock through the town centre, but when stopped at the bridge the trio provided their proof of exemption from paying.

All the sheep, which were supplied by Merley Hall Farm, were then gathered into pens at Willow Walk.

Speaking to the Echo Wimborne Mayor Sue Cook said she thought bringing back the tradition for one day would be a really great community event and fundraiser.

“This is one of my last events as town mayor and I’m so pleased with how it went,” she added.

“It was really good fun, although I’m surprised at how fast the sheep went once they were out of the pens.

“Hopefully everyone who cane to watch really enjoyed it.”

Funds raised from the charity tins at the event will go to the mayor’s chosen charities, the Priest's House Museum, Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community and the Dorset Youth Marching Band who performed at the event.

One of the freemen Anthony Oliver, 76, said he was thrilled to have had the chance to drive sheep through the town.

“It was one of the first things I mentioned when I was given the honour of Freeman back in 2011,” he added.

“It was such good fun and I’m glad so many people turned out to watch and join in the fun.”