The role of Town Crier in England goes back to Medieval times when town criers were the means of communication, spreading news and local bylaws, royal proclamations, market days, holidays and community events, as many people could not read or write.
These days the Town Crier, in a ceremonial and voluntary role, makes public announcements about local events, using a handbell to attract attention and shouting ‘Oyez, Oyez, Oyez’ which means ‘hear ye’, a call for silence and attention.
Biddulph’s Town Crier, John Robinson, celebrated 30 years of being the town’s crier in 2024. He was appointed in October 1994, with November 1994 Minutes stating ‘Mr John Robinson was introduced to the Committee and welcomed to the position.’
John was presented with an inscribed ‘Town Crier Medal’ at Biddulph’s Town Council Meeting on the 11 March 2025.
A letter from the Chief Officer, Mrs Sarah Haydon, read: ‘On behalf of Biddulph Town Council, I would like to thank you for your 30 years of service as the town’s Town Crier. We had hoped to recognise this at the end of 2024, but we waited for a Town Council meeting so that we could all celebrate together.
You have served with passion, pride, and a sense of tradition for the past 30 years. You have been the voice of our town, delivering news, proclamations, and announcements, not just with a loud voice, but with heart and dedication.
Through every proclamation, every cry, and every gathering, you have brought us together, helping to preserve the spirit and history of our beloved town.
John, we thank you for your unwavering commitment to our community, for your enthusiasm, and for the years of service you have provided. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you, and we look forward to many more years.’
You can see – and hear him – announcing and opening events such as the Christmas Lights ‘Switch On’, and leading an element of pageantry to special occasions.