Norwich’s city crier steps down after more than 30 years
The Lord Mayor Tom Dylan and the Sheriff Derek James host a civic reception to celebrate David Bullock's 25 year service to the city of Norwich as the City Crier. Photo: Simon Finlay. - Credit: EDP pics © 2010 (01603) 77243
His booming cry and bell-ringing has been heard throughout Norwich for more than three decades but now David Bullock has decided to hang up his tricorn hat and step down from his role as city crier.
At full blast! David Bullock deafens a listener on one of his city duties, 07.01.87. Photo: Archant Library. - Credit: Judd
Mr Bullock, a retired policeman from Gorleston, has officially been the city crier since 1984, playing a key role in annual civic events such as the mayor-making and Freeman ceremonies, and the Lord Mayor's Procession as well as many other occasions.
Now aged 83, he says it is time for a new person to take on the role, and he will be succeeded by deputy city crier Bob Lloyd.
'I have enjoyed the whole of my time as city crier. I have felt it quite an honour to be able to represent the city as I have,' said Mr Bullock.
Norwich Town Cryer / Town Crier David Bullock on the steps of City Hall.PHOTO: ANTONY KELLYCOPY:FOR:EN NEWS© ARCHANT NORFOLK 2009 (01603 772434) - Credit: © ARCHANT NORFOLK PHOTOGRAPHIC
'I have been to some wonderful things and taken part in some momentous occasions in Norwich...It's been quite a life and I have enjoyed every bit of it, but I think it is time to make way for new blood.'
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As well as being part of all the annual civic events, Mr Bullock said some of his highlights have included being involved in marking the 800th anniversary of the Norwich City Charter and also a special gathering of people who live other places around the world called Norwich and Norfolk.
He is also proud to have taken part in countless town crier competitions across the country and around the world, including in Canada, America, Belgium and Germany.
City Crier of Norwich David Bullock, voices his support for the Mustard Shop. Photo: Simon Finlay © 2008 - Credit: Archant © 2008
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His is currently the archivist for the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers and was chairman for six years from the late 1980s.
When asked about why he was so passionate about the role of town and city criers, he said: 'I am very keen on history and heritage...when you think of all the things like Morris dancers and city criers and town criers and the whifflers, it would be a grey old world if we did not have the colour and heritage from the past.'
A Norwich City Council spokesman said: 'David has been synonymous with historic and civic occasions for more than three decades and he has been a wonderful ambassador for Norwich.
City Crier David Bullock, right, with his new deputy Robert Lloyd at City Hall in Norwich. Photo: Bill Smith/Archant © 2010 - Credit: Archant © 2010
'We will be formally honouring the service he has given at a reception in the new year and welcoming Bob as his successor.'
Do you have story about an unusual job? Email emma.knights@archant.co.uk
