Royal Wootton Bassett Town Crier Competition Celebrates 20 Successful Years

Royal Wootton Bassett was filled with the sound of ringing bells and resounding cries on Saturday 19^th September 2026 as the town proudly hosted the 20th Anniversary of the Town Crier Competition.

Organised by Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council in partnership with the town’s own Town Crier, Owen Collier, the event welcomed competitors, guests, dignitaries and supporters from across the country. Town Criers travelled from neighbouring towns including Swindon and Calne, as well as from further afield such as Dawlish and Cromer, highlighting the strong friendships, traditions and community spirit that continue to thrive within the Town Crier community. 

The competition attracted spectators throughout the day, who enjoyed a colourful display of pageantry, impressive vocal performances and good-hearted competition. Participants showcased their skill, character and dedication to preserving one of the country’s most historic ceremonial traditions.

Following a closely contested competition, the Mayor of Royal Wootton Bassett, Cllr Fiona Holness presented the winning trophies to:

First Place: Mark Northway from Cromer

Second Place: Jeremy Holland from Cinderford

Third Place: Nigel Kenneison from Widecombe in the Moor

Best Dressed Town Crier: Rosalind Charlton-Chard from Hatherleigh

Best Dressed Consort: Heather Graham from Dawlish

Best Dressed Couple: Bob and Heather Graham from Dawlish

The Duncan Wolstenholm Memorial Cup: presented by the wife of the late Duncan Wolstenholm, Pat Wostenholm to the winning Town Crier – Ian Bristow from Berkhamstead

The milestone event was regarded as a great success, bringing together competitors and visitors from across the United Kingdom while celebrating two decades of Town Crier competitions in Royal Wootton Bassett.

Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council would like to thank all competitors, residents and visitors who helped make the day such a memorable occasion. 

A special thank you to; Owen Collier – RWB Town Crier, RWB Camera Club, Delicias Catering, Basset Bakery, InTouch Design, Tilia Crafts, D W Radway, and ASF Creative.

And the judges for the event – Heather Wannell, Gillian Butterworth and Councillor Pat Farrow. 

The Town Council looks forward to welcoming Town Criers back to Royal Wootton Bassett in 2028!