Heart Of England Town Criers' Championship In Alcester

ALCESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 30: Participants take part in a procession in the town centre during the Heart of England Town Criers Championship on March 30, 2024 in Alcester, England. From Medieval times, the town crier served as a primary means of news communication with the townsfolk, disseminating royal proclamations, adverts, and newsworthy events. Although the profession was largely phased out in the early 20th Century with the growth of newspapers, town crier competitions are now held for ceremonies or to add color to special events. The Ancient & Honourable Guild of Town Criers (AHGTC), founded in 1978 at Hastings, works to standardise competitions and keep the profession alive. (Footage by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)