Town crier Marc Goodwin helps keep tradition alive in Whitehaven

It’s the sound of a tradition stretching back centuries, kept alive today by Marc Goodwin, the town’s current crier.

Mr Goodwin said: "Throughout history and across almost every culture, there have been those entrusted with carrying news and proclaiming important messages to the people.

"From the heralds of ancient kingdoms to the town criers of today, these figures have helped connect communities through shared stories, celebrations, and moments of importance.

"That tradition feels especially meaningful to me here in Whitehaven, as my great great grandfather once printed a local newspaper called The Cumberland Pacquet.

"More than a century later, it is fascinating that the role of Town Crier somehow found me, continuing that same family tradition of sharing news and messages with the local community."

The role of town crier dates back to a time when few people could read or write.

Criers served as the "newspapers of the day," ensuring important news and proclamations reached the public.

Their duties extended beyond announcements, often including semi-judicial tasks such as escorting the destitute to the workhouse, installing minor criminals in the stocks, administering floggings, and, during public hangings, reading out why the person was being hanged, and helping to cut him or her down.

While most town criers now serve purely ceremonial functions, Whitehaven's crier continues to perform a legally required duty.

He reads out the annual market proclamation, without which, markets would be illegal in Whitehaven.

Until the current ceremonial style of crier was formed over 20 years ago, the annual shouts were made by the lead solicitor from Goughs.

Mr Goodwin also participates in other community events, including visits to groups and shouts at events such as Pit Memorials and visits by tall ships.

Each announcement begins with the traditional call of "Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!"—meaning "Hear ye!" in old English—and often concludes with "God Save the King."

If you witness the annual market shout, you are invited to sign as a witness, and the document is then sent to the records office.

Mr Goodwin follows long-time crier Rob Romano, who remains involved through the Town Crier Committee, alongside deputy crier Anthony Payne, a former St Bees schoolmaster.

The committee also includes Marlene Jewell, Louise Savage, Gerard Richardson, and Joy Yates.