Castleford brings back town criers to promote civic pride in the area
Castleford has reintroduced town criers as part of efforts to promote civic pride in the area.
Barbara Hughes and Paul Carr have been jointly appointed to the role, making their first appearance at the town’s Roman Festival last Saturday (May 30).
Historically, town criers have been responsible for calling out proclamations on matters including public holidays, new taxes, wars and royal announcements – usually armed with a bell and a loud voice.
Castleford Civic Society decided to reinstate the position after the town had been without one for a number of years.
The society said the appointments “sit perfectly” with the organisation’s mission statement of “valuing our past and encouraging pride in our future.”
Ms Hughes and Mr Carr were introduced to the public at the event by a ‘Roman centurion’ in front of the town’s library.
The pair presented two rhyming cries and then “proceeded to walk around the town bell ringing and spreading the word.”
Val Ely, the society’s civic pride lead, said “The criers received a fantastic reception. It was lovely to see the faces of young and old.
“They are clearly going to be very popular at future events in the town.
“As a civic society we are pleased to have reintroduced this heritage tradition.”
The new town criers were dressed in black and gold outfits with feathered caps and cloaks made by local firm David Winter Tailoring.
Mr Winter and his father Ray have been in Castleford for many years and have made clothing the Royal Family and Strictly Come Dancing.
Prior to widespread literacy, town criers were the means of communication with the people of a town.
The position had been previously held by Reg Lavine.
A society spokesperson said Mr Lavine “did a brilliant job, but his advanced age has prevented him from being active as the town crier for some considerable time.”
The new town criers can be booked to visit schools, attend summer galas and other events via the civic society.
The town crier role is unpaid, but voluntary donations can be made to the society which will then go to a local charity or organisation at the end of the financial year.