Oyez! Oyez! Town crier takes on social media

Woodbridge's town crier Patrick Gillard, pictured with county councillor Ruth Leach, says anyone is welcome to try out for the volunteer role

Town criers may date back to medieval times but one community is bringing back the role to reach people who do not use social media.

A new bellman made his first appearance in the Suffolk town of Woodbridge on Saturday, booming public announcements from three locations.

The initiative came from county councillor Ruth Leach, who said she wanted to find ways to update residents "who do not use social media or read the newspaper".

The ceremonial role, supported by Woodbridge Town Council, is voluntary with the crier's garments made from recycled materials and the handbell donated.

The town crier's role used to be seen as vitally important to share news in times when many people could not read

Town criers are known for their calls of "oyez, oyez" - an appeal for silence and attention - and proclamations of news and bylaws, preceded by the ringing of a handbell.

The post, which originally included patrolling the streets after dark to keep the peace and taking miscreants to the stocks, was seen as vitally important to share news in times when many people could not read.

Liberal Democrat councillor Ms Leach said there were currently about 150 town criers registered in the UK.

"I am looking for ways to reach our residents who do not use social media or read the newspaper," she said.

"We need to explore different ways to keep these residents up to date with what is happening in Woodbridge.

"The project also celebrates our heritage, bringing a sense of pageantry to our market town while creating a bit of community fun."

Former mayor Patrick Gillard performed the role on Saturday, updating townsfolk with latest news, birthday wishes and announcements.

If the three-month trial is a success, it is hoped the town crier will appear on the first Saturday of each month - and volunteers are being sought to fill the role.

"Anyone who would like to try is very welcome, including the ladies - you just need to be able to project your voice across the town square," said Mr Gillard.