Oyez, oyez, oyez, hear our news – York’s bellman is back!
Ben Fry is to return as York Town Crier, it was announced today (Tuesday).
This Thursday is the inauguration day of the new Lord Mayor of York, Cllr Margaret Wells and Sheriff, Fiona Fitzpatrick.
And they will be joined by the Town Crier as Ben makes his official return to the role.
Lord Mayor (elect) Cllr Margaret Wells said: “Having the role of Town Crier return is very exciting for my year in office.
“Ben always brings fun and energy to his role and this will be a much welcomed addition.”
City of York Council leader Cllr Claire Douglas said: “The return of the role of the Town Crier to York is a fantastic addition to Cllr Wells’ civic year.
“It will only add to the importance of the civic party to communities across our city and I couldn’t be happier to support.”
Having hung up his beloved bell back in November 2022 after three and a half years and 750 events, Ben has got the polish ready and the red suit is at the dry cleaners!
His first event back in the voluntary role will be as master of ceremonies at inauguration day on Thursday.
And he has already been booked to lead the 2.4 mile parade for charity group York Pride on 1 June.
How to request the Town Crier
The York Town Crier supports the civic party, local events and good causes.
If you want him to make a proclamation, make a request at the York Town Crier website.
Ben said: “I gave up the role to spend more time with my kids, but ironically my son Nick was the most disappointed that I was no longer York’s Bellman, and was the main driving force saying I should pick the bell back up.
“I’m thankful that Councillor Wells and Fiona Fitzpatrick along with City of York Council have welcomed me back with open arms.”
He added: “I think giving something back to your community is important, and I’m lucky I can give something back by shouting at people.
“Also, I’m really excited to see what a new Mayor can bring to York and North Yorkshire, but at the same time I don’t want the importance and work of York’s Lord Mayor to be lost in any way.
“If I can help support and act as the civic party’s warm-up I’d feel it was a job well done.”
Ben said his focus will be to support the civic party, as well as local events and good causes.
“As it’s a voluntary role, and I do have other commitments, I won’t be able to be at everything, but if anyone wants to have a proclamation made they can make a request via the York Town Crier’s website.”
Events in the past included the Queen’s Jubilee proclamation at the Mansion House, opening York’s popular Food and Drink festival as well as championing events including York Ice Trail and The Rugby League World Cup whilst held in York.