Ecclesfield Parish Town Crier – Ecclesfield Parish Council

Photo of Town Crier, Cllr John Housley with Cllr John Bowden a Grenoside Sword Dancer

John Housley was appointed as the official Town Crier for Ecclesfield Parish in 2025. Above he is pictured with Cllr John Bowden – a Grenoside Sword Dancer.

Town Criers in England date back to 1066 when William the Conqueror introduced them. Their role was to announce news, events and proclamations in the community.

Today, their role is a more ceremonial one, and John’s key role is to assist the Parish Council is promoting major events and introducing an element of pageantry to special occasions.

John has been undertaking this role on an unofficial basis in the Parish for several years.

Subject to availability, the Town Crier may be available may be available to local community groups and schools for events

For all enquiries, please send an email to admin@ecclesfield-pc.gov.uk

Photo taken showing Chairman Susan Davidson, Mrs Bookey Oshin DL, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for South Yorkshire & town crier John Housley Towncrier John Housley with Chairperson Susan Davidson and representatives of the Wortley rotary club stood outside the phone box defib at the Barrel pub with cllr Andy Bainbridge, Corey from the barrel pub, Clerk Andrew Towlerton and Mark Ramsden

Above left Chair Susan Davidson, Mrs Bookey Oshin, Deputy Lord Lieutenant for South Yorkshire & Town Crier Cllr John Housley. Pictured right, Town Crier Cllr John Housley pictured opening a new defibrillator with the team.