Tetbury town crier rings bell for the last time (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Tetbury town crier Derek Jackson rings bell for the last time

9:00am Saturday 12th January 2013 in News By Ian Craig

A POPULAR town crier whose commanding voice has been a constant presence on the streets of Tetbury for the last nine years has hung up his bell for the last time.

Derek Jackson recently retired from the role he has occupied since 2003 following his final engagement – introducing Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall when they turned on the town’s Christmas lights last month.

He was chosen for the role after making an impression as Father Christmas during the town’s festive celebrations and was often seen in his 18th century-style blue coat and tricorn hat introducing events such as the Woolsack Races as well as appearing at weddings and other events.

Tetbury mayor Rob McCorkell described the chance to work alongside Derek as “a privilege and an honour”.

“He served Tetbury with commitment and integrity,” he said.

“He never took a penny in payment – if people insisted on paying him he put it into a charity fund which paid to get a large painting in the market hall restored.

“He will be missed.”