Posted on behalf of Chris Brown…
The South of England Town Criers Championship will be held of Monday Bank Holiday May 1st : 2017 in Wimborne Minster
I would like to formally invite you to attend this competition which is being held in Wimborne Minster for the forth time (we are sharing alternate years with Blandford Forum).
The programme will be similar to previous years, with a 10 am start for the draw and with two rounds to be held in two locations. There will be first, second and third Crier as well as best dressed crier, escort and couple. PLEASE NOTE THIS WILL BE AN OPEN COMPETITION (e.g. open to both Guild, Loyal Company and Bona fide appointed Criers of no affiliation) run along the excellent “SEAFORD RULES”. I can post or email these rules to you or those on facebook can see them attached to the event page
I am afraid I cannot offer you expenses or accommodation but can commit to hospitality and a very hearty welcome from this historic town, which really does revel in these competitions. Those who have been before will recall we draw a large and consistent crowd who in previous years have thoroughly enjoyed the event and stayed throughout the day. I am also hoping that we will again have some Youth Marching Bands who are joining us for part of the day.
Morning coffee/tea and biscuits, lunch and afternoon tea and cakes as well as free car parking will be offered to all competitors and their escorts. I will make every effort to accommodate extra people you might like to bring but can not guarantee this at this stage. Please do let me know if you want to bring family and/or friends as this is a wonderful town to explore and if the budget allows I would like them to enjoy the same hospitality.
Can you please respond to me by FRIDAY 31ST OF MARCH 2017 if you wish to take part in this event, email, letter or phone acceptances will be appreciated but please DO NOT TRUST MY ANSWERPHONE to relay a message to me! I will send exact details of the event to those who confirm their attendance. I am not asking for a deposit and I hope that all who do commit to coming honour that, save the usual emergencies and illnesses that can not be planned for.
I look forward to hearing from you and wish you all the very best of health.
Your friend in the service of Her Majisty.
Chris Brown, Town Mayor’s Serjant & Crier of Wimborne Minster
Wimborne Minster Town Council, Wimborne B.I.D., East Dorset District Council, Minster Press, The Minster Church of St Cuthberga, The Tourist & Information Office, Waitrose and a host of willing and committed volunteers are also assisting me with this event.