THE Mayor of Andover has spoken out about his ‘disappointment’ after fellow councillors voted against his proposals of appointing a town crier and purchasing new regalia for the town council.

At a full council meeting on Wednesday, August 8, Cllr David Coole put forward a motion which suggested that £4,000 be spent on appointing a town crier, following a competition to find the best candidate.

A Town Crier is a person who would traditionally be employed to make public announcements in the streets or marketplace of a town.

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The motion also proposed the purchasing of new regalia, at a cost of up to £12,000.

Regalia is clothing or ornaments worn by the mayor and deputy mayor.

During debate, Cllr Luigi Gregori said: "I do not know how we can appoint a town crier given the town council doesn't have a lot to crow about.

"Regalia is a complete waste of money, we are harking back to something prior. I think these things should be dropped forever."

Cllr David Coole responded: "This town council is not the only council or organisation which can appoint a town crier. If we don't take up this opportunity, others will."

Both motions were overwhelmingly rejected.

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Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Coole said: “Town criers are an important and integral part of our history and our culture, and we need to cherish and celebrate the best bits. The council was given a golden opportunity, indeed the winning ticket, to make a tangible and substantial difference in Andover. Sadly, it fell at the first hurdle.

“However, all is not lost for the restoration of the Andover town crier. Whilst the town council has rejected any role, I am confident another organisation will now take up the prestigious honour.”

He continued: “It was disappointing, but not surprising, that the council also voted against purchasing its own mayoral regalia. The council is now 12 years old but seems reluctant to move beyond its adolescent phase. If it wants to be taken seriously as a local authority, it needs to look the part; it just might help it to start acting the part and to deliver improvements its residents want.”