Crowds flock to see artist drive sheep down A6
PAINTER EXERCISES RIGHT TO MOVE ANIMALS THROUGH SALFORD AS HE RECEIVES FREEDOM OF CITY
TRAFFIC came to a standstill and drivers stared in amazement as Babba, Forest, Alan and Albert meandered slowly down the A6.
It’s not every day you see a flock of sheep walking along The Crescent.
It was all down to renowned artist Harold Riley, who decided to celebrate being awarded the Freedom of Salford by exercising his ancient right to drive sheep through the city.
The accolade also means the celebrated painter also enjoys the privilege of parading through the streets with a drawn sword, which he duly did during a joyful investiture ceremony.
The 82-year-old artist – who was trained by LS Lowry and who has sketched famous world leaders – has remained devoted to his roots during his 66-year career – and the city recognised that spirit by awarding the honour for only the 24th time since 1899.
Among those attending the ceremony at the Salford Museum and Art Gallery were Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Bobby Charlton, and United legends Denis Law and Willie Morgan.
The sheep, pedigree Derbyshire Texels, were on loan from a farm in Ashbourne. Mr Riley has a cottage in Derbyshire as well as his home in Salford.
Mr Riley told the M.E.N.: “This is the greatest honour I have received – it is the highlight of my career. I love this city. I love its people.”
Among those previously awarded the honour was Mr Riley’s mentor Lowry in March 1965. Mr Riley was 11 when he first met Lowry. He was awarded first prize by the artist at a Salford Grammar School art exhibition in 1945. They were friends for 30 years.
As well as painting American presidents, sporting greats, and Nelson Mandela, his sketches of Salford and its people make up a huge part of his work.
Salford’s City Mayor Paul Dennett told more than 150 guest at the ceremony: “No one epitomises the spirit of Salford more than Harold Riley. The love of his city and people cemented his friendship with Lowry. This award is our way of saying thank you to him for his unceasing support for Salford, his legendary generosity towards local, national and international good causes and for documenting the changing face of our great city.”
Mr Riley was a former Manchester United academy player under Sir Matt Busby, but eventually attended the Slade School of Fine Art in London.
And former United manager Sir Alex told the ceremony: “He won’t let you forget United didn’t sign him, but I am sure the richness of your life has made up for that.”