Town Crier

Laurie Gilbert shouts "oyez" in Batley and Dewsbury in his strong army drill sergeant's voice with good reason;he is the Town Crier for both towns. Dressed in his splendid costume, which was designed with the help of fashion students at Dewsbury College, he has the choice of three bells to ring to add to his call.

Laurie, who is a keen amateur actor, has been enlisted to promote both towns at events and functions, both in Kirklees and beyond. He has already appeared at competitions in Banbury and Huddersfield and in June 2007 will be competing in the British Town Crier Championships in Cheshire.

His costume which was tailored by Simon Brookes displays the two mottos of the towns.

Floreat Industria - prosper through diligence and Deus Noster Refugium et Virtus - god is our refuge and strength.

Supported by both Area Committees for the first year, councillors are keen to see the Town Crier out and about.

If your business has an opportunity to promote the towns and could use a "loud voice" then please contact Hilary Thompson, Towns Manager via the website to make arrangements for Laurie to be invited.

"Oyez, oyez, oyez."