To many, they may seem like an outdated throwback to a distant age, but after three years without one, Attleborough has decided now is the time to recruit a new town crier.
While many areas have long retained the role, the market town has been without one since 2013, after ill-health saw well-known crier and lollipop man Melvyn Hurn step down.
His absence has been felt – and, on Monday, town councillors decided to put the feelers out for the voluntary position.
They are keen to hear from anyone willing to don the grandiose finery, warm up their vocal cords and become an all-in-one news service, information hub and champion of the town.
Tony Perkins, Attleborough mayor, said any candidates would have to show they knew the town was worth shouting about.
'It's something that I've been thinking about for a while,' he said. 'It's been a few years since Melvyn stepped down and he did such a great job – it really helped raise the profile of our great town.
'Having a crier adds a certain character to events – and when you've got someone shouting and ringing the bell it's hard to not attract more members of the public.'
He said that events held recently, such as a bike trail organised for the Tour of Britain's arrival last summer, would have 'had a little something extra' had a crier been to hand.
And when asked about the job criteria, he said: 'They don't necessarily have to live in Attleborough – they just need a decent voice, a good personality to go with it, an outgoing nature and to be willing to turn up to events.'
The crier will join others
across the region in Wymondham, Norwich, Cromer, Swaffham, Downham Market, Bungay and elsewhere.
Once appointed, they will most likely be needed at community events including the town's popular Christmas lights switch-on and summer carnival and party in the park.
For more information on the role, contact the town clerk on 01953 456194.
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