That's what the town crier shouts at the tops of their voices when giving out all the local news & events on in their area !!! I must admit I can't really imagine this little lady shouting very loud ..she was very dainty & I wouldn't think she had a very loud voice ! This is Garstang's very own Town Crier! When she wants to shout something she rings the large bell she is carrying & then bellows out all she has to say !!
I asked these people yesterday if I could take their photo & they were delighted!! I am getting very brave ..it did help that I had been to a funeral & had consumed a large Gin & Tonic !!!
I have a picture of her on her own where you can see the bell better but thought it had more interest with the larger view !
A wonderful shot (whole scene!), Pat. Your story made me laugh! I never have the nerve to ask people either. And I never saw a town crier the whole time that we lived in England!
@robinwarner If you have a large G & T every time you ask somebody for a portrait you'll end up like most of your subjects!! Fab shot Pat - I've never seen a 'lady crier' - it would be hilarious if she actually has an enormous booming voice!
Great shot! She doesn't quite have the physique of a usual town crier though, does she? I like the idea of a street shot - but haven't plucked up courage yet! It's not so easy in a village where everyone knows you!
Wonderful shot, Pat! This photo reminds me of my grandmother. We always referred to her as the 'town crier'...she was always the first one on the phone to spread the latest news and gossip. Love how you used that gin & tonic to your advantage. :)
Well, she looks a lot like a he, but I agree that she does look too little to have much of a voice. So are these town criers just for the tourists? or do they legitimately call out the news?? Brave you asking for permission. Might have to start taking gin and tonic in a little hip flask when I head out on my photographic runs. :-)
@murnane Have never heard her shout yet but it is the first time I have seen her. I have heard a town crier before but it has always been a man ! Not just for tourist because our area is not on the tourist trail but just an old English tradition ! I whole heartedly recommend the Gin & tonic for Dutch courage !!
Well done for asking and grabbing a really great shot. I am amazed that little lady has the volume required of a town crier but I don't think she'd have got the job without a good set of lungs and a loud output!
Things I like in the photo......the northerners with the brollies (in case it rains).