The Commonwealth of Nations Flag of Peace

Monday 13th of March 2023 is the first Commonwealth Day since the death of our beloved Queen Elizabeth II.

To mark the occasion, the 10th anniversary of the late Queen signing the Commonwealth Charter, a Crier will make a proclamation in cities of the Commonwealth.

Sadly, where I live is a town not a city.

Imagine my surprise and pleasure when I received an email from no less than the King's Pageant Master.

Apparently, a neighbouring city has no crier and I have been invited to step in and lend my assistance for this most auspicious occasion. It took me a matter of seconds to give a positive response.

I did have some slight reservations afterwards. The City of Sunderland as well as being our close neighbours, are fierce rivals, both in their city status and in the football rivalry. Football ⚽️ is almost a religion in the North East of England! Fortunately this rivalry is normally restricted to good natured banter.

Those reservations were soon brushed aside when I thought of the enormity of this event and the fantastic opportunity that has fallen into my lap so early in my career as Billingham Town Crier.

Despite it being over 4 months away, I have already received my Certificate of Appreciation for my contribution and also the proclamation that I must use.

How proud am I?

Many thanks to Billingham Town Council who, in my capacity of Town Crier, are my employers, and are graciously allowing me to do this.