Newton Abbot Town Council is redoubling its efforts to fill a unique civil role that would suit someone with a big personality and even bigger voice.
Its last Town Crier stepped down from the post a few months ago after eight years of spreading the news and welcoming visitors.
An initial call for a replacement fell on deaf ears so now the authority is shouting it from the rooftops in the hope new blood can be found
With gender and age immaterial, the only qualifications needed for the voluntary office are the town’s interests at heart and the flair required to stand in the streets, bedecked in the traditional uniform, and stop shoppers in their tracks.
‘It’s a wonderful historic role and something we’re very keen to keep going,’ said Mayor Cllr Colin Parker.
‘Residents and visitors alike love seeing and hearing a crier, it’s another reason why the high street is so much more rewarding than online shopping.
‘We’ll provide the uniform, cover travel expenses and guarantee a warm welcome to the Newton Abbot team.
‘Its a unique opportunity to be part of the town’s long history and keep a centuries-old tradition alive into the twenty-first century.
‘It also comes at a time when our Victorian market hall is nearing the end of its multi-million pound makeover and new traders are preparing to move in.
‘There’s plenty to shout about in Newton Abbot, we just need someone to help with the shouting.’
The town crier tradition across Britain dates back centuries, predating widespread literacy and newspapers.
Local authorities used criers to make proclamations, announce market days and bylaws, royal news, tax changes and other important messages, always aloud and in public spaces.
They typically began their announcement by calling ‘Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!’, a phrase which means ‘listen’ and is derived from Norman French.
The crier often carried a hand bell to draw attention the role, historically, was legally protected. Harming a crier, who acted in the name of the monarch, was considered treason.
Although the tradition gradually waned, it was revived ceremonially in many towns during the 20th century.
In Newton Abbot, the crier is appointed by the town council as a custodian of tradition and civic pride.
They appear at local events including the annual Newton Abbot Town Criers’ Competition, held each September, when criers from across the region gather to compete in vocal delivery, presentation and dress.
Newton Abbot’s crier before last, the late Ken Purchase, took on the role after responding to an advertisement.
He went on not only to become an ambassador for the town, attending competitions abroad with his wife Dulcie, but also served on the town council and was elected Mayor in 2018.
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