No town cryer for York (From York Press)

No town cryer for York

9:43am Friday 3rd September 2010 in

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“OYEZ!, Oyez!, Oyez!” I see in the British Town Crier Championships held at Bridlington this year, East Riding town crier Michael Wood’s vocal chords were clocked at an ear-shattering 104.6 decibels – louder than a World Cup vuvuzela. (The Press, August 23).

But not a “peep” or a “toot” out of York’s town crier – because we haven’t got one! It’s enough to make one weep.

York’s last town crier and bellman, John Redpath, retired over three years ago – and the powers that be have done nothing to replace him.

John was self-employed and a great ambassador out of his own pocket. He was seen throughout the streets and pathways, as well as promoting civic events, attending Yorkshire Day, etc.

Come on Yorkshire Tourist Board and Visit York, instead of all this hot air, blow your city’s trumpet and put a bit of financial backing to a permanent town crier. “Oyez!, Oyez!”

Dale Minks, Ancress Walk, York.