With summer in full swing and a range of community events taking place, Melksham’s Town Crier says he is looking forward to continuing the long-standing tradition of heralding the town’s major events.
Ian Pugh was officially welcomed into the role nearly a year ago and, over the past year, has performed cries at a number of community events, including the Remembrance Parade last November, the annual carnival parade and the Makers’ Market.
“The aim of doing a cry at the market was to whip up some enthusiasm and let people know where and when it was taking place,” said Ian. “We had quite a good turnout in the end. I walked up and down the High Street encouraging people to attend.”
Ian brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been a professional toastmaster for around 15 years. “Speaking in front of a large crowd is not a problem for me,” he said. “I’m not embarrassed by it, like a lot of people are.”
Traditionally, the town crier had an important role in delivering public announcements, such as new laws, to the local community. “You would traditionally see them go out with a scroll and hammer it onto a tree or wooden door,” explained Ian. “Back then, most people couldn’t read, so important documents had to be read aloud to make everyone aware of changes.”
Keen to keep the tradition alive in modern-day Melksham, Ian said, “I think it’s a good thing for Melksham to carry on with. It’s a great opportunity to go out and see the people. People do stop you and ask what it’s all about, it’s surprising how many have no knowledge of town crying or why it was introduced.”
This summer, you may spot Ian ‘crying’ at the 80th anniversary of VJ Day event on 15th August, which will include a special ceremony at Canon Square, and at the Melksham Food and River Festival on 30th and 31st August.
Ian took over the role from former town crier Jax Brady, who made history as Melksham’s first-ever female town crier.
Pictured: Ian Pugh at last year’s Remembrance Day and in this year’s carnival
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