Oyez! Oyez! Town crier wanted

Existing crier Eddie Powell has realised he can't give enough time to the job and has hung up his long coat.

New candidates can come forward and be judged by the public at a special competition to be held at Vicarage Fields on December 1.

All that is required of the new crier is a big voice and a willingness to come and support the town's events.

He or she will have to wear a large hat, long coat, buckle shoes and hold a handbell.

The town council finance committee is also considering a small salary for the new crier.

David Rannie was the town's first crier in modern times, from 1983 to 1985.

On his first day as crier, during a mayoral ceremony, a man stripped off his clothes and walked up to Mr Rannie to shake his hand.

Mr Rannie said: 'He was just trying to express himself and everyone dealt with it very calmly.

'We pushed him gently to the side and he got his clothes back on before police led him away.

'I was asked to be crier after the town council spotted me doing announcements for the Long Man Morris Men.

'I still do it now.'

Peter White has been the Seaford town crier for more than 30 years.

He said any new town crier would benefit from joining the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers.

He added: 'I would advise Hailsham's new town crier to sing not shout or they will hurt their throat.

'And don't compete with low flying aircraft or seagulls.

'A sense of humour is also important.'

For further details contact the town council on 01323 841702.