Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!

Llandovery is calling out loud and clear in a bid to find a new town crier to take over from long-standing bellman Joe Beard following his recent retirement.

Would-be criers have until June 17 to submit their applications and town councillor Handel Davies is confident that a fine, upstanding man – or woman – will be found to fill the commanding role.

“Sadly it appears to be a dying art,” he said, “so we’re determined to find a fantastic replacement who will ensure that Llandovery’s town crier tradition will continue for many more years to come.”

Llandovery’s first town crier, Mr Graham Smith, was heralded into office some 40 years ago. So popular was the position, that the town used to hold annual junior town crier festival every year for the children.

Joe Beard has served the town for the past 20 years and now Handel Davies is eager for a successor to step into the regal red coat.

The Llandovery town crier will be expected to preside over the inaugural mayor making ceremony, lead the annual carnival procession and attend the town’s ever-popular sheep festival.

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Criers normally wear and red and gold coats, white breaches, black boots and a tricorne hat and always ring a handbell to attract attention.

The Llandovery crier is a voluntary position however the successful candidate will be able to claim agreed expenses whenever he attends functions in an official capacity.

Anyone who is interested in applying for this important position should contact Llandovery Town Council by emailing clerk@llandoverytowncouncil.org.uk.

“It’s important that people remember this isn’t just open to men, but to women too,” added Cllr Handel Davies.

“Just think back to Jemimah Nicholas down in Pembrokeshire and everything that that mighty woman achieved.

"But we’re confident that this role is once again going to be filled admirably for the benefit of the whole town.”