Why 'The Drovers'?  

For over 150 years, huge numbers of animals were reared in Scotland and then driven to markets in the South of England.

 

Wetherby’s position on the Great North Road, its ford and bridge, made it an important crossing point, market and stopover for Drovers and their animals.

 

The trade resulting from Droving helped build the town and its facilities. This history of the lives of ordinary people is often overlooked but it formed the heart of this beautiful part of Leeds.

 

The Drover’s dilemma was whether to pay to use the safe crossing on the bridge or risk fording the river Wharfe!  Listen to the 'Drover Master', Rob Gray tell the story here and purchase his book here

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This event marks the importance of this cultural history of Wetherby using music and the full range of arts and crafts.              ( Bands can apply here )