Council seeks town crier with 'cheerful manner'

Town criers have historically announced major events in national life by calling out proclamations

A town crier could be appointed "to strengthen civic pride" and celebrate the heritage of a town in Rutland.

Oakham Town Council is looking to find a volunteer to take on the traditional ceremonial role and represent it by attending civic and community events.

Historically, town criers have been responsible for calling out proclamations on matters including public holidays, new taxes, wars and royal announcements - usually armed with a bell and a loud voice.

The ideal candidate must be "clean, smart and have a cheerful manner" and always be polite and in good humour, the council said.

Former Oakham mayor Adam Lowe was appointed as town crier in 2021 but did not carry out any public engagements, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The council is to approve a fresh recruitment process when it meets on Wednesday.

'Stong, clear voice, essential'

The role comes with some rules, the council explained.

"All cries must begin with the traditional proclamation 'Oyez, Oyez, Oyez' and conclude with 'God save the King'," it said.

"Content must remain strictly non-political and non-religious and should reflect good taste and the ceremonial spirit of the role."

The role will be unpaid but the town council will provide the person with a new uniform, a coat, ruffles, hat and bell, and is proposing to set aside a budget of £450 for the outfit.

It will also pay for the new recruit's National Town Crier Organisation membership.

According to the job description, the successful candidate must have "a sound knowledge of Oakham - its history, character, and community—is essential".

The town crier is also expected to either possess or actively develop this local understanding to ensure their cries are both meaningful and contextually appropriate.

"A strong, clear voice and confident public presence are essential," the council added.