Melksham last held a Town Crier Competition in September 2023 when longstanding postholder Peter Dauncey stepped down after 16 years of service. During his time in post, Peter was awarded Freedom of the Town at the Mayor’s Reception in 2023 and he continues to be an active member of the Melksham community as well as the Ancient &Honourable Guild of Town Criers.
At last year’s competition, Jax impressed the judges with her excellent audition featuring a self-penned poem honouring the community spirit of Melksham, which showcased her big voice and even bigger heart. She has continued to engage and inspire the community ever since, attending local events and ceremonies as well as school assemblies and fetes.
Three generations of Town Criers even came together when Jax had the honour of presenting a special Town Crier doll, hand-knitted by Peter Dauncey’s wife Joan, to aspiring young Crier, Ada-Rose, following her own impromptu audition at last year’s competition.
Melksham Town Council would like to thank Jax for her dedication and enthusiasm during her time as Town Crier. She has been a welcome addition to many events and engagements over the last year, and her warmth and humour will be much missed.
As the official messenger of Melksham, the Town Crier is responsible for delivering important announcements, embodying the spirit of tradition, and representing both the Town Council and the community at key events, ceremonies and celebrations.
The ideal candidate will possess a clear, powerful voice, a passion for public speaking and a strong stage presence. The ability to engage with diverse audiences, an enthusiasm for Melksham’s heritage and future developments, plus an authoritative yet approachable demeanour will also be crucial for this role.
Those interested in applying for the role of Melksham Town Crier will need to submit a completed application form by Sunday 11th August. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an audition which will involve performing a ‘cry’ of their own in front of a panel of judges.
Auditions will be held at the Melksham Food & River Festival as follows:
Date: Sunday 1st September 2024
Time: 2.30pm
Location: King George V Playing Fields
Application forms and further information can be downloaded below or collected from the Town Hall.
Completed forms will need to be returned to Melksham Town Hall or emailed to communitydevelopment@melksham-tc.gov.uk by Sunday 11th August 2024.
For more information about the competition or about the role of Town Crier, please email communitydevelopment@melksham-tc.gov.uk or phone 01225 704 187.
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