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From: 163 Spring 2026
Author: Peter Smith
This has been a traditional Autumn event for many years. While flooding can prevent or impact it as it did in 2024, last year’s event sadly did not materialise for management reasons, probably reflecting the lack of a Ranger in post. It’s important for these traditions to continue where possible, but we gather the council also has concerns over health and safety these days.
Some photos highlight the more unusual approaches to past Round Ups (or “Drives”). The arrival in 1963 of the Sheriff by Helicopter, and the use of horses to round up cattle in 1971 (photo copyright to Reg Earl and courtesy of the Earl family). The livestock were herded along Godstow road to the nunnery where a temporary pound was erected for the annual count. This was before the current pound by the old bathing area on the meadow was built in 1980.
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