Chippenham Town Council is seeking a town crier to raise its profile and promote the town.

It is holding a competition to find a town crier on Saturday December 14 at noon in the Market Place, to run alongside the Victorian Fayre, and is encouraging anyone over the age of 18 to have a go.

All competitors will be expected to give a three minute cry on the merits of Chippenham.

Chippenham Mayor Sylvia Gibson said: “Finding a town crier for our town is long overdue.

"The chosen person can help raise the profile of Chippenham and will be able to 'shout' about its merits as they visit other towns in Wiltshire."

The position of town crier will be a self-employed role; however there will be an honorarium from the town council to ensure the selected town crier attends all civic events, as well as joining the Ancient & Honorary Guild of Town Criers.

Full robes will be provided by Chippenham Town Council and the Mayor is donating the hand bell for the successful applicant to use. The successful applicant will be expected to have, and to develop, a good local knowledge with an understanding of the town and its history. It is hoped they will be able to make easy conversation with anyone seeking assistance during their duties. For full details and an application form, go to the website www.chippenham.gov.uk Hard copies are also available from the Town Hall or the Community & Visitor Information Centre in the High Street.