VGC Group Chairman Sean Fitzpatrick and CEO Ciara Pryce took part in the historic Sheep Drive across Southwark Bridge on Sunday 27 September, continuing one of the most distinctive traditions linked to the Freedom of the City of London.
Both Sean and Ciara were awarded the Freedom of the City in May 2024 for their contribution to construction in London.
Sean and Ciara were awarded the Freedom of the City of London in May 2024 for their contribution to construction in the capital.
What is the City of London Sheep Drive?
The historic Sheep Drive continues the ancient tradition of Freemen driving sheep into the City of London.
The Sheep Drive comes from the ancient right of Freemen of the City of London to drive sheep into the City to sell at market.
Centuries later, the tradition continues as a celebration of London’s history and civic life, with Freemen once again taking sheep across the Thames.
For Sean and Ciara, taking part had a particular connection to their work with VGC. Over the years, they have helped build a business whose skilled and professional people work across major infrastructure and construction projects throughout the capital.
On Sunday, however, the job was a little different. Railways and major infrastructure made way for steering a flock of sheep across Southwark Bridge.
A proud day for VGC
VGC has a long-standing connection with London and the projects that keep the capital moving.
A memorable day in the capital for Sean Fitzpatrick and Ciara Pryce.
The Sheep Drive brought together two sides of that relationship: a centuries-old London tradition and an industry that still shapes the city today.
It was also a chance for Sean and Ciara to mark their receipt of the Freedom of the City in a rather memorable way, alongside fellow Freemen taking part in the tradition.
Our thanks go to the organisers, volunteers and fellow Freemen who made the day possible.
It isn’t every day that construction leaders swap hard hats for shepherd’s crooks, but this was certainly one to remember.
Read more VGC Group news
Explore more VGC Group news, including recent awards, industry recognition and milestones celebrating the work of our teams across infrastructure and construction.
