More than 300 people gathered at Denbies Wine Estate on Wednesday as all 13 sheep sculptures from the Surrey Hills Sheep Parade were unveiled together for the first time.

The campaign uses colourful sheep sculptures created by Surrey artists to encourage  one simple message: keep dogs on leads where sheep graze.

Families, dog owners, artists, farmers and countryside enthusiasts gathered to meet the flock and celebrate the launch of the campaign, which aims to raise awareness of livestock worrying and support responsible dog walking in the countryside.

Visitors enjoyed live dog training demonstrations, met real sheep Dibby and Lenny from the Downlands Grazing Partnership, and took part in a range of sheep-themed activities.  Artists were presented with naming certificates by High Sheriff of Surrey, Mrs Joosje Hamilton DL, Tim Hall, Chair of Surrey County Council and Chair of Mole Valley District Council, Simon Budd.  

Pet portrait artist Sharon Brooks said “It was a natural fit to feature dogs on my design.  The keep dogs on leads message is so important, and it was an amazing opportunity to be part of a project showcasing Surrey artists.” 

The flock will remain at Denbies Wine Estate before heading to the Surrey Hills Wood Fair in Cranleigh on 12 September.

Unlike a traditional sculpture trail, the Surrey Hills Sheep Parade is a travelling flock with a purpose, bringing together art, farming and a positive message about enjoying the countryside responsibly.

Tim Metson, Local Farmer and Chair of the Surrey Branch of the Country Land & Business Association (CLA), said “When you’re looking after livestock, seeing a dog running loose among sheep is a real concern. Even when a dog is friendly, sheep can panic and the consequences can be serious.  I’ve lost lambs this year. We hope the Sheep Parade will help people understand why keeping dogs on leads where sheep graze matters and give farmers a voice in that conversation.”

Marisa Heath, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Planning, said: “Sheep help make the Surrey Hills the special place we know and love, but farmers face many challenges. This campaign helps dog owners support our farmers and protect animal welfare through one simple message: keep your dog on a lead around sheep. It’s a small action with a big impact, protecting livestock, supporting farmers and helping keep our countryside safe and accessible for everyone.”

Visitors can follow the Sheep Parade’s journey and share their favourite sheep designs on social media using #SurreyHillsSheepParade.

For more information and updates on where the flock is heading next, visit www.surreyhills.org/sheep-parade-2/.

Art plus theatre, music and culture feature in Premier Magazine’s multi-page ‘events’ guide each edition. Browse the latest edition HERE. A monthly round-up is also available inbetween editions ONLINE.