This month, BUSHEYnews sat down with resident town crier Marco to hear about how this ancient role has evolved into the modern day.
Prior to newspapers, radio, TV and the internet, news was announced by town criers, men with booming voices who were appointed by the mayor of the parish to go out and voice the news.
Dressed in a bright tailcoat, breeches and tricorn hat topped with white feathers, he stood in the centre of the market square and drew attention to himself by ringing a large handbell three times before crying out: “Oh ye, oh ye, oh ye (hear this)”.
He then made local announcements. Afterwards, he stood on the steps of the local inn and nailed up a parchment with news he had inscribed using the feathers from his hat.
Howard Marco, popularly known as Marco, has been the town crier in Bushey for eight years and performs at official events around six times a year.
As the chairman of a high-end menswear company with branches in the City and West End of London, Marco spent many years of his working life supplying costumes to members of the government, the courts, City of London mayors and councillors.
He said: “Around 15 years ago, my career changed direction, so utilising my knowledge of British traditions, protocol and etiquette, I undertook training to become a professional toastmaster and master of ceremonies, eventually officiating at community events in Bushey.
“Some past functions include celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday party, multifaith Remembrance Sunday at Bushey war memorial, Bushey Festival, and many other happy occasions.”
Marco will be at the opening of the Festival in the Park at King George Recreation Ground at 1pm on Sunday, July 7. To find out more, please visit wwwtoastmastermasterofceremonies.com
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