Chard’s annual Town Crier Competition took place on Saturday 29th June 2024, drawing in a bit of crowd outside of Bath House, Holyrood Street.

The competition was run under the rules set by the Ancient & Honourable Guild of Town Criers, which tells us, “Town criers as we know them today have been making public announcements and proclamations since the 18th century. They make a very distinctive impression on their audience even before they begin talking. Corporations, shops, restaurants, public houses, churches and councils will employ a town crier to add a touch of colour and a memorable impact to their events.”

Chard Town Crier, Stuart Cumming who organised Saturday’s event said: “It was an honour to host Chards second town crier competition with 16 top criers from over the country. We brought fun, colour and noise to the town centre. All of the criers had a lovely day and were very appreciative of the organisation. I'd like to thank the town council, army cadets, judges, volunteers, businesses in Holyrood Street and Mrs Town Crier for all of their hard work in making this day so successful. Here's to next year."

Town Criers performed through two rounds, each with a different theme, on the judging panel was; Alexander Priest – Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Cllr Victoria Bates – Mayor of Chard, Cllr Garry Shortland, Jude Addicott, Cllr Craig Hussey, Rev. Georgina Vye and Karin Cumming. The Army Cadets did a great job of ensuring the competition ran smoothly and helping out with the results.

The results were 1st place crier - John Pitt - Plymouth, 2nd - Ros Charlton Chard - Hatherleigh Manor, 3rd - Roy Palmer - Royal Hospital Chelsea, Best Dressed Crier - John Pitt - Plymouth, Best Dressed Escort - Yvonne Recardo - Yeovil, Best Dressed Couple - Andrew and Julie Fox - Ilminster and Best Content - Jackie Edwards – Kingsteignton.