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Until April 2000, St. Albans had not had an
official Town Crier for many years, unlike many other historic towns and cities around the
country. Very little is known about earlier Town Criers, but an old handbell resides in
the City Museum, though it is cracked and obviously has not been used for a long time. In
her book called Happy World, author Mary Carbery, whose home was the building now
known as the Pre Hotel, recalls her childhood in late Victorian times, and refers to
"A trip into St. Albans was a treat, where the friendly old town crier in his blue
coat with silver buttons would lift us down from the carriage". Martin would be happy
to hear from anyone with more information.
For a city as steeped in history and tradition as St. Albans, it was recognised early in
2000 that a good official Town Crier might well prove to be a valuable civic asset, and a
walking tourist attraction. Consequently, in March, the City Council announced that a
competition would be held in the city in April to find a new Honorary Town Crier for the
21st Century. Valuable advice was given by the Loyal Company of Town Criers,
and sponsorship found from The Herts Advertiser newspaper. The judges would be looking for
a candidate who was "Articulate, diplomatic, temperate, civic-minded, reliable,
dignified and approachable", possess audibility and clear speech, and a good
knowledge of local history. Quite a tall order!!! Four candidates presented themselves for
interview in late April - curiously enough all four were from the north of Britain, and
three had been involved with Morris Dancing for many years.
Unfortunately, one candidate had to drop out due to other commitments, and so it was three
candidates who gathered at the medieval Clock Tower in St. Albans at noon on 29th
April to find the new Crier. Judging was performed by the then Mayor of St. Albans, the
Town Centre Manager, and the Chairman of The Loyal Company of Town Criers, Allen Bills,
the Town Crier for Bristol. The candidates had to write and deliver a proclamation of
75-100 words extolling the virtues of the city, in a public audition. An enthusiastic
crowd gathered to watch the contest and after excellent contributions from all three
contestants, Martin Hallett was appointed to the position.
Martins magnificent new official Regency-style livery has been commissioned
from G.D. Goldings Tailors of St. Albans, suppliers to many prestigious military regiments
and Buckingham Palace. His splendid tricorn hat was supplied by Alter Ego theatrical
costume designers of St. Albans, and his 6 ½ inch diameter bell was supplied by the
world-famous Whitechapel Foundry of London. Grateful thanks are due to The Herts
Advertiser for sponsoring much of these costs. The livery is in the distinctive blue and
yellow colours of St. Albans, and incorporates, by kind permission of the Mayor and
Council, the coat of arms of the city, in addition to the Herts Advertiser logo. Martin is
now a member of The Loyal Company of Town Criers.
Martin has already become a familiar sight in the city, publicising several well-known
city events, leading the annual Carnival procession, greeting guests from twin towns,
mc'ing festival events, and attending several opening ceremonies. In addition, Martin has
appeared at the Millennium Dome and accompanied the locally-based Royal National Rose
Society to Hampton Court Flower Show. His imposing presence, booming voice and ready
wit and humour are set to become a significant part of the city life for many years to
come.
At many events, Martin is accompanied by his consort, Jan Hurst, who has designed and made
a stunning regency-style costume of her own to complement Martins costume, and provides
the grace, elegance, style, beauty and talent that is sadly lacking in Martin!!!
Martin is proud to serve the City of St. Albans in this unique role.
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