Stonehouse WI (From Stroud News and Journal)

Stonehouse WI

2:18pm Wednesday 19th December 2007

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THE meeting opened with the reports from our president, secretary and treasurers and election of the new committee. Ken Brightwell - Cheltenham's very own town crier told us of his personal story in taking up the role over the past years. He enlarged in detail on this ancient profession and gave us many examples of both male and female, who proclaimed the message in history. Soldiers in the time of war took plans to their chiefs, the angel Gabriel had good news for all, also the Greeks ran marathons to deliver messages. Marlborough had a town crier as far back as 1152, although the job description might have been different from what it is now. He would not have been so impressively dressed with tailored coat, bell and badge of office.

Ken obviously had a repartee with those he meets. He is enthusiastic about Gloucestershire and his English heritage and became involved in the Ancient and Honorable Guild of Town Criers, which were founded in 1978. The job has taken him as an ambassador to many countrywide events, often competing in competitions where volume, diction and inflection are judged, with successful outcome.

Ken hopes that a book will be published soon on the work of Town Crier which is a creative role, not only of broadcasting news, but one of events, poetry, celebration and the closing of a meeting.

O'Yea O'Yea O'Yea There is a lot more to know avout Ken in his role of Town Crier, but it would be more fun for you if you were to invite him along to your next meeting,or school event to find out.

Ring WI secs phone for more information about future meetings 01453 826023

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