A town crier is a unique addition to your event. Not only does it offer some traditional pageantry but it is attention grabbing. My traditional attire, booming voice, and ringing bell create a spectacle that instantly draws attention. To ensure you get the most out of this occasion, please read the information below.

 

Hints & tips

​

• Every event is different and every proclamation is unique and tailor-made especially for you. 

• The writing of it is a skilled task, blending ceremonial tradition with a meaningful message for your occasion to create a unique and memorable experience. As a result, it can take anything from an hour to a day to compose something that best suits your event.

• If you have a communications team, I am happy to liaise with them to ensure the content meets the needs of your organisation. However, every proclamation is written by myself. Please provide all relevant contact details in sufficient time so we can make any necessary adjustments.

 

The structure of the proclamation

​

• The proclamation is structured to draw attention and remain true to the cultural heritage of a town crier

• It lasts no more than 3 minutes, which means the word count is in the region of 150 to 200 words

• The content should contain reference to the event's history/background or events taking place

• If there is a speech from a dignitary immediately following my proclamation, I will introduce the speaker. You will need to provide me with the speaker's details, salutation etc prior to the event.

• The content may, where requested, contain an element of humour, but NOT a joke, especially a joke that may only relate to a few people.

• Careful attention is given to the choice of words. Alliteration and rhyme help people to understand and remember the proclamation.

• Careful and correct phrasing is a must. Information is conveyed in a logical and understandable way but also in plain English, so it is easy to understand by the crowd.

• If multiple proclamations are being made throughout your event, the relevant information must be provided in time to ensure each one has bespoke content.

 

Important Considerations

​

• As is traditional with town criers, a handbell will be used to attract the attention of the crowd before the proclamation begins. It is heavy and, whilst I do check the space around me before I start, there should be a 2 metre "exclusion zone" around where I am to stand to prevent accidents and injuries.

• The audience will definitely hear me, but they also need to see me, so please ensure that there is a clear access route to where I shall be delivering the proclamation.

• Where multiple proclamations are to be made, a timetable of events including timings will be required showing the timing and location of each proclamation.

• Where necessary, a suitable changing facility must be organised for the Town Crier and his consort.

• Where events require paid entry, suitable arrangements must be made before the event to ensure that my entry is arranged and all arrangements are communicated to me in a timely manner. 

• I will attend most events with my consort who will take photographs and provide other support, these photographs will be shared with you for your own future publicity. The same paid entry requirements are required for her.

• Suitable pre-arranged parking must be organised for the event. This will avoid unnecessary delays to the timetable. Where public car parks or public transport are utilised due to a lack of parking availability, the costs will be reimbursed to the town crier by the organiser. 

• Prior to attending your event, I will provide a suitable risk assessment for the town crier activities.

 

Things To Avoid

​

• A proclamation will NOT consist of lists of names, financial data, product lines event agendas and the like. This is better done by someone else, perhaps as part of a speech.

• A proclamation will NOT consist of an advertisement copy. I am happy incorporate the promotion of businesses, events and shows into the proclamation. Advertisements however, are best left for newspapers, magazines and other media.

• Please note… I do not read proclamations and/or speeches written by others.

• Please do not leave your proclamation planning to the last minute and expect me to perform with excellence as this simply won’t work. Every proclamation needs sufficient time to create to ensure it is delivered with impact.