Britain’s Best Town Crier hangs up his bell and hunt for new Town Crier begins!
Dorchester, the County town of Dorset has begun its hunt for a new town crier after Alistair Chisholm has hung up his bell after 27 years of service and 11 National Championship wins.
Town criers have been making public announcements and proclamations in town centres across England since the 18th century. It is a nationally renowned position that serves an important function both in terms of promoting the town and its heritage. Many towns have lost this role, but Dorchester are keen to keep the wonderful tradition going.
The hunt for the new town crier was of course, launched by Alistair, outgoing crier and current town Mayor, on 31st December 2023 at the stroke of midnight. Alistair proclaimed to hundreds of local residents gathered at the Town Pump to hear his final cry, the following words:
“Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!
For 27 years, I’ve been crying on the streets,
But now I am retiring because I am wobbly on my feet,
It’s time to pass on this traditional role,
To someone new, who our town can extol,
Someone who is proud of the town, and its folk,
Someone who can be serious, but also likes a joke,
Man or woman, that matters not a jot,
Just write to the council and tell them what you have got!
God Save the King!”
Dorchester Town Council are leading the recruitment and explained that the new postholder will be expected to attend all major civic events in the town and must be able to write and perform their own non-political, non-religious cries. Some financial assistance is provided and the postholder must have a good knowledge of the town and its history or be prepared to learn. Further details of the role and its requirements can be found at: https://www.dorchester-tc.gov.uk/
Alistair Chisholm himself is involved in the recruitment process also and is looking forward to mentoring and supporting the towns new town crier.
All are invited to apply with a letter explaining why they are suitable for the prestigious role by 12th February 2024 to:
Dorchester Town Council
19 North Square
Dorchester
Dorset
DT1 1JF
Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to perform in a nearby public location before the successor is chosen.