Plenty to shout about at Sleaford town crier contest

The popular event hosted by Sleaford Town Council and compered by Sleaford Town Crier John Griffiths saw 11 entrants from across the country plus consorts travel to compete on Saturday September 6.

The day was kicked off with a spectacular parade of criers from the Town Hall led by a full contingent of the Band From County Hell Clansmen Drummers through the streets to the venue.

Compere John said it was “a brilliant day” and thanked all the town criers who took part and the people of Sleaford who came out to support the event.

Contestants were first asked to be judged on a cry about their home town, which they then each followed up with an original cry on a different aspect or landmark of Sleaford which they had to research and compose.

First prize went to Elisabeth Anderson Watson, town crier of Barnoldswick. Second place went to Mark Northway, of Cromer, and third was Terry Ford, of Otley.

Other prizes were awarded to best dressed crier – Brenda Willison of Newmarket, best dressed couple - Jane and Jonathan Smith of Bognor Regis, best theme cry – Terry Ford of Otley, and best ambassador – Jody Huizar of Great Dunmow.

Judging was carried by Mayor of Sleaford Coun Alison Snookes and her husband Town Councillor Adrian Snookes, as well as Deputy Mayor Coun Dave Darmon.

Competitors were judged on five categories: sustained volume and clarity, diction and inflection, presentation and engagement, content of cry, and accuracy.