Held in Chester’s historic town square, the fifth World Town Crier Tournament brought together 25 competitors from across the globe, including England, the Channel Islands, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, and the United States. The event began on Tuesday and concluded with the winner announced on Thursday.

Town criers, traditionally messengers responsible for public announcements dating back to medieval times, gathered dressed in brightly colored coats, breeches, rosetted boots, and tricorn hats. Chester is recognized as Britain’s town-crying capital and is one of the few places where this tradition continues regularly, with official proclamations broadcast in the city during the summer months.

The tournament featured a variety of contests, including one where participants called out “Hometown Cries,” proclaiming news or anecdotes about their places of origin. Competitors ranged widely in experience and background, from seasoned participants like Judy Campbell, the current Australian champion with 34 years of experience, to newcomers such as 25-year-old Summer Gallant from Canada, who began her town-crier career in April 2026.

Organizers noted challenges faced by arriving criers, including air traffic disruptions that caused some to lose their luggage, resulting in a shortage of traditional costume pieces in Chester. This led participants to seek outfits from sources ranging from local fancy dress shops to professional costume companies in London.

Throughout the event, town criers demonstrated a mix of historical references and humorous observations. One contestant, a first-time participant originally from Surrey but having spent many years in New York City, incorporated fun facts and local color into his cry, eliciting polite laughter and applause from both the audience and fellow criers.

The tournament also highlighted the communal aspect of the tradition. Participants spoke of the camaraderie they found among international peers who shared a passion for preserving the craft of town crying. The role, once a vital communication tool, now serves as both a cultural performance and a celebration of heritage.

Judges assessed competitors on various criteria, including audience engagement and delivery. While individual day winners represented Canada and Staffordshire, the ultimate champion was not announced until the tournament’s final day.

The World Town Crier Tournament continues to maintain and promote this centuries-old tradition, offering a unique glimpse into a historic form of public communication that endures in a modern world. The event was organized by Marketing Cheshire, aiming to spotlight Chester’s rich cultural history and its unique place in preserving town crying.