Town crier retires after 25 years

Brian SylvesterImage source, Newbury Town Council
Image caption,

Brian Sylvester became Newbury's town crier in 1999

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A town is seeking a new town crier after the current one announced he was retiring after 25 years.

Brian Sylvester began his tenure as Newbury Town Crier on 1 April 1999.

Residents of the Berkshire town have been invited to share their memories and photos to express their appreciation for Mr Sylvester's work.

Anyone interested in being the next town crier should apply on Newbury Town Council's website.

Mr Sylvester has taken part in mayor making ceremonies, jubilees, community events and local shop openings, and has become an integral part of the town's identity, the council said.

It added he embodied the "civic pride of Newbury" and served as a symbol of community unity as well as a reliable source of information.

Plans to celebrate Mr Sylvester's tenure are underway, the council said.

Anyone with photos or memories to share should contact the mayor's office.

As well as a new town crier, Newbury Town Council is also looking for a mace-bearer.

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