One of Hailsham’s longest-serving town criers is preparing to retire after 12 years in the post.
Geoff Rowe, who was appointed to the role in 2009 and is a former town councillor and mayor, has decided to retire and wishes to step down to allow someone else the opportunity to step into this prestigious position.
“After 12 years serving as town crier to Hailsham, I have decided to retire as age has caught up with me,” Mr Rowe said. “These have been very happy times and I’ve enjoyed all of the shouts I have done.”
“I’ve met criers from other towns and learned something from many of them. Many people from Hailsham have expressed some enjoyment from the shouts and the town has even been publicised abroad because of them.”
Mr Rowe added: “The town is now looking for a new crier and this is an appeal for somebody to take on the role. You’ll need to be fit, have a loud, clear voice a sense of fun, and be prepared to shout at different times in the week. And, not forgetting, an understanding and supportive partner!”
“I hope there is a suitable candidate who can spread the good word loud and clear and give the town and its events the publicity they deserve. But it is their role to develop the post as he or she thinks fit.”
“God Save The Queen.”
The Town Crier assists the Town Council to promote important community events such as the Christmas Lights Switch-on, Christmas Market and other special markets by crying in the town centre before and during events.
Subject to availability, the town crier can, like the Town Mayor, also be hired by individuals, groups, schools or commercial ventures for events and official openings, as well as charity events.
“There are currently just over 200 town criers in the UK representing towns and cities, communicating in the oldest method available, by word of mouth,” said Town Clerk John Harrison. “I am pleased that Hailsham is one of these and is able to enhance the image of our market town by appointing town criers and fulfilling their important duty, acting as ambassador of good will for Hailsham.”
“In his 12 years as Town Crier, Geoff Rowe has dedicated a lot of his time to the role, which has included helping with a number of mayoral events, specialist markets and official openings, as well as our annual bonfire night and Christmas celebrations. He has represented the needs of the local community admirably, and we’ve been very fortunate to have him as our Town Crier and loudest citizen for so many years!”
Mr Harrison added: “We look forward to welcoming applications for the new Town Crier. All that is required is a big voice, courteous behaviour, strong connections to the town and a willingness to come and support its events.”
Travel expenses will be paid for any events that have been organised by the Town Council that require travel.
The Town Council is looking for someone with the following qualities:
Depending on the numbers interested in the position, the successful candidate will either be appointed following an interview by the Town Clerk and councillors, or via a crying competition.
If you are interested in applying to become Town Crier for Hailsham, please write to: John Harrison (Town Clerk), Town Council Offices, Inglenook, Market Street, Hailsham, BN27 2AE. Alternatively, send an email.
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk