A chorus of bell-ringing and booming voices resonated through the streets of Cromer as town criers from across the UK gathered for the prestigious Loyal Company of Town Criers British Championship 2025. Set against the backdrop of the town’s rich seaside heritage, the competition offered a vibrant spectacle, showcasing the talents of these vocal ambassadors.

The event commenced with a lively parade, dubbed the “bells-up” procession, in which competitors, adorned in traditional regalia, marched through Cromer, culminating at the Cromer Pier forecourt. Each town crier then presented themed performances, with this year’s focus on the heritage of British piers. Competitors engaged the enthusiastic crowd with their unique renditions of the “Pier Cry,” before later delivering their “Home Cry” in front of spectators outside Cromer Church.

Mark Northway, the town crier of Cromer and the event’s organiser, emphasised that town crying extends beyond mere volume. Speaking about the criteria for judging, he mentioned that contestants are assessed on factors such as clarity, diction, inflection, and overall engagement. “We are very fortunate to have judges skilled in these areas here in Cromer,” Northway noted. His own demonstration of the “Cromer Home Cry” provided a reference point for the competitors, highlighting the rich tradition being celebrated.

The day concluded with several accolades recognising exceptional talent. Terry Ford from Otley was crowned the overall British Champion, while John Griffiths of Sleaford secured the Best Pier Cry prize and was named the People’s Champion for his heartfelt engagement with the audience. Additional awards acknowledged the Best Dressed Consort, which went to Andrea Hunter of Knaresborough, and Best Dressed Couple, awarded to Rennie and Denise Chivers of Colchester.

Town crying has deep historical roots in British culture, often harking back to when criers would announce public news and events to the townsfolk. In a time when modern communication has eclipsed traditional forms, these events serve not only to entertain but also to preserve a heritage that is rich and often overlooked. This celebration of town criers illustrates a community coming together, promoting local pride while preserving history in a theatrical spectacle.

The tradition has evolved, but the essence remains, with competitions demonstrating the skills and creativity of these vocal performers, showcasing their unique relationship with their communities. With over 30 years since the Loyal Company was established, and events like this one highlighting the talent involved, the future of town crying looks poised to thrive amid a backdrop of modernity.

In contrast, the challenges posed by the pandemic were starkly highlighted in previous competitions, such as the 2021 British Town Crier Championships, which were held in silence, judging competitors solely on their written cries due to health restrictions. This year, however, Cromer’s vibrant atmosphere underscored resilience, celebrating both the talent of participants and the community spirit that drives this unique tradition.

As Cromer continues to host such prestigious events, the legacy of town criers remains vibrant, promising endless opportunities for engagement and storytelling in the hearts of towns across the UK.

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Source: Noah Wire Services