Love and appreciation has poured in for Marlborough’s popular Town Crier, Mike ‘Tuppers’ Tupman MBE, who has died aged 80.

Mike served as Marlborough’s dedicated Town Crier from 2016, but he started his career working at Cadbury and then spent many years serving as a special constable for the Wiltshire Police.

The father-of-two and grandfather-of-four has an MBE for his services to the community of Wiltshire, and grew to become a beloved friendly face that could be seen at almost every town event.

Mike, known to many as ‘Tuppers’, died early in the morning on Saturday, January 13, 2024.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Mike has been described as a 'huge personality' and 'the face of Marlborough'.Mike has been described as a 'huge personality' and 'the face of Marlborough'. (Image: Marlborough Town Council)

“Mike took up the Town Crier role on March 7, 2016," said a spokesperson for Marlborough Town Council.

"Later that year, in August, he won a Town Crier competition – having only attended with the intention of picking up tips about the role.

“Mike brought dignity, humour and kindness to every event, and we know he will be sadly missed by the wider community as well as all at Marlborough Town Council.”

“The town has lost one of its great characters,” added Marlborough Mayor, Nicholas Fogg.

“As a long-serving Special Constable he was always available, always fair, always firm.

“As Town Crier he had the most resonant voice I recall ever hearing, bringing his sense of humour to every occasion. We will miss him deeply.”

From the moment Mike took on the role of Town Crier in 2016, it was clear to all that he would spread love and laughter through the town.

“We consider ourselves very fortunate to have such a marvellous person and I think the town is going to love him,” predicted former mayor Margaret Rose on the day of Mike’s welcome ceremony.

“It sets the town alive to have a such huge personality.”

Residents of the town have already taken to social media to share their fond memories of the Town Crier, who left so many he met with a smile on their faces.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Mike was a familiar and friendly face at many town events over the years.Mike was a familiar and friendly face at many town events over the years. (Image: Marlborough Town Council)

“When I started as a graduate trainee at Cadburys in 1981, Mike Tupman was my regional manager,” shared Phil Price.

“Although he had quite a large salesforce under him in those days - the whole of the south of England – he always took an interest in the new joiners and was motivating, supportive and a good mentor.”

“Tuppers, you were one of the best. Marlborough was very lucky to have you. A nicer man you couldn’t meet,” added Graham Loney.

Mike Tupman’s funeral will take place at All Saints' Church, Burbage on Monday, 5 February at 11am.

The service will be followed by a cremation at North Wilts Crematorium, Royal Wootton Bassett and then a wake at Marlborough Golf Club, with all welcome.