Each year in April or May, Town Criers come from far and wide to keep up the ancient tradition of crying and to compete in the annual Yeovil Town Criers' Competition.
The Criers, who are members of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers (AHGTC) provide a colourful spectacle by entertaining visitors throughout the day as each competitor performs their home town cry and a cry of their own choice in the Town's Open Air Entertainment Area in Middle Street - in the presence of the Mayor and Mayoress of Yeovil.
In Medieval England, Town Criers were the chief means of news communication with the people of the town since many could not read or write. Royal proclamations, local byelaws, market days and adverts were all proclaimed by a bellman or crier throughout the centuries.
Town Criers often dress elaborately, by a tradition dating to the 18th century, which includes a coloured robe, breeches, black boots and a tricorn hat. They carry a handbell to attract people's attention, as they shout the words "Oyez, Oyez, Oyez!" before making their announcements.
Trophies are presented to the winner and runners up in the competition, and awards are also given for the best dressed Crier and Escort. All competitors are awarded a certificate and presented with a memento of the event.