Sheriff of Oxford to carry out traditional inspection of Port Meadow and livestock

The Sheriff is responsible for the conservation of Port Meadow, which is mentioned in the Domesday Book, and is owned by Oxford City Council.

Only Freemen of Oxford and Wolvercote Commoners have the right to graze livestock on it.

Representatives of the Freemen and Commoners will join the Sheriff for the inspection and the party will walk across the historic open green space, which is a site of special scientific interest, to check that the meadow is being properly maintained and on the welfare of the livestock.

After the inspection, the group will head to The Plough, in Wolvercote, for a traditional Aunt Sally match against the Freemen of Oxford’s team. 

Mr Rowley, said: "I’m honoured to be carrying out the long-standing tradition of inspecting Port Meadow and its livestock.

“Port Meadow plays an important role in the life of Oxford, and the inspection helps ensure the continued high maintenance of the natural asset.”