SHERIFF of Oxford Craig Simmons led the traditional round-up of cattle on Port Meadow.

It was an early start for the Green city councillor and about 6.30am he led a party of park rangers from Oxford Direct Services, the Freemen of the City of Oxford, Wolvercote Commoners and volunteers for the traditional cattle round-up.

The medieval custom features the team rounding up the livestock to a pound at the northern end of the meadow to check no-one is illegally grazing livestock.

The round-up also plays a vital role in checking on the welfare of the cattle on the meadow.

Mr Simmons said: “The cattle were running all over the place so I’m afraid we weren’t able to herd any of them into a pen.

“But we did manage to count them - there were 270 - and as they were running so fast we could at least say that they seemed reasonably healthy. I’m glad I was joined by other city councillors, including Susanna Pressel, and the rest of the volunteers to help with this task.”

Mr Simmons said he welcomed the longstanding tradition and thought it played an important role in the life of the city.

He added: “It helps to ensure continuing high levels of animal welfare and the proper maintenance of the important natural asset that is Port Meadow.

“As both a Freeman and Sheriff, I am excited to be involved.”

The meadow, which is mentioned in the Domesday Book, is owned by the council and only Freeman of the City of Oxford and Wolvercote Commoners have the right to graze livestock on it.