I'd heard the reason that became a thing is because stealing sheep was punishable by death, but if you were caught "just trying to fuck it" you'd escape the worst sentencing.

EDIT: I don't know why the stereotype changes from Welsh to Scottish in some non-British countries, but I assume ignorance plays a role (Wales is a country? I thought that was just 'west' England!)

I'd heard the reason that became a thing is because stealing sheep was punishable by death, but if you were caught "just trying to fuck it" you'd escape the worst sentencing.