A new town crier has been appointed in Melksham and he is getting ready for his first ‘cry’ at the town’s annual Remembrance Parade next month.
Ian Pugh was officially welcomed into his role by Melksham’s mayor, Cllr Tom Price, former town crier, Jax Brady and aspiring young town crier, Ada-Rose, earlier this month.
He brings a wealth of experience to the role as a professional toastmaster (also known as a master of ceremonies), for weddings and various functions.
“I am very pleased – what a position to take, because of all the history behind it,” said Ian. “The history of town criers is very important because they provided everybody with the news.”
“The role is very much ceremonial but it gives the link between the modern-day Melksham and Melksham of the past and I do not think we should ever forget that.”
Ian has taken over as town crier from former crier Jax Brady, who was appointed at last year’s Food and River Festival.
“I applied to the town council to be the town crier after I found out that they were looking for a position,” says Ian. “I have worked for a number of years as a toastmaster – this was an ideal opportunity to move into something that is going to give something back to the community.
“I can bring my current skills into this role. The position of town crier is very important because it also maintains the standards which have been set for functions and organisations.
“I am most looking forward to meeting people and getting to know people. As a toastmaster, the advice is to perform for functions which are raising money for charity. I get involved in a number of charitable organisations.”
Ian’s first appointment is the town’s annual Remembrance Parade, which is due to be held on Sunday 10th November.
“It is going to be a big job,” says Ian. “It is very important and was initiated by the King so that we never forget the sacrifice that so many of our soldiers, sailors and even, back then, airmen who gave their lives willingly to support this country and I can’t think of anything better to actually start a career.”
Sharing the secret to being a successful town crier, Ian said, “You either have it or you don’t. The ‘it’ is the ability to project at great distance and have people listen to you. It is clarity of speech – speak clearly, speak plainly but speak loudly as well. Always project to the person at the back.”
