Resplendent in his town crier robes, Peter Taunton is a striking sight. He has been Newport’s crier since 2009, a role he took on alongside duties for Stafford which he began in 1998.
With wife Maureen and 12-year-old junior crier Lee Storey, Peter has attended all manner of events, including Newport’s carnival and old time market. Peter’s services include group talks, proclamations, personal appearances and as a toastmaster.
As a town crier, Peter - assisted by Maureen - has travelled extensively all over the UK and international events have seen the couple venture to Australasia, India and beyond. It was while in Australia that Maureen was named best dressed town crier’s escort in the world - a title she holds to this day. At the same event Peter was named sexiest town crier in the world - ask him about that yourself!
The former Coldstream Guard, tank driver and coach driver became Stafford’s crier when he was medically retired at 50. "When I saw the advert for Stafford’s town crier it was a perfect opportunity," says Peter. "The Newport addition was only meant to be temporary, but I fell in love with the town and its community spirit."
He has fond memories of the day the Olympic torch passed through Newport - mostly because of his crier’s ‘fertility bell’. "On that very day one young lady who had been trying for a baby for 12 years rang the bell. Doctors couldn’t believe it when she became pregnant a short time later."
Visit www.britishtowncrier.co.uk to arrange a talk or appearance, alternatively call 07786 667265 or email peter.taunton@sky.com
