Town crier resigns over work void

Mr Hart said he had enjoyed his work and would miss the job

A Norfolk town crier has resigned after more than six years in the job - because there is not enough for him to shout about.

Kerry Hart, 39, of North Pickenham, Swaffham, said he was no longer being hired for events in the market town.

"I've no idea why people haven't been booking a town crier. It's a voluntary job and there's no charge," he added.

"I really hope the next person gets more work. It's a brilliant English tradition which we need to keep going."

Sole applicant

Mr Hart applied for the job as town crier when he moved to the area with his family.

He said: "I saw the advert in the local paper and thought it would be a good way to meet people, but never dreamt I would get it.

"When I arrived at the audition I found out I was the only one who'd applied and I was given the job straight away."

Over the years he has enjoyed entering national town crier contests and appearing at the opening of shops and the town's refurbished museum.

He said: "I once had to stand in the middle of the market square and shout 'dumplings' when TV chef Brian Turner was doing a cookery demonstration.

"I've really enjoyed it and I will certainly miss the job," he added.

The job is now being advertised.