Aspiring town criers to perform in first Junior Town Crier Competition as part of contest in Warwick
Warwick is to add its first ever Junior Town Crier Competition to a contest showcasing the historic craft that is hosted in the town.
The Warwick Town Criers Competition returns to Pageant Gardens on Saturday May 23, with competitors from the across country taking part in a contest of voice, delivery and tradition.
Organised by Warwick Court Leet under the rules of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers, the event takes place every two years and sees criers dressed in their distinctive robes and tricorn hats, perform two cries – one promoting their hometown and another on a chosen theme.
New for 2026 is the first Junior Town Crier Competition, giving young finalists the chance to showcase their creativity and vocal skills.
Three finalists will battle it out in the town’s Pageant Gardens after being shortlisted by judges including Warwick’s own town crier Michael Reddy.
On the same day experienced town criers will perform their cries in the main competition.
The day starts at 10.30am in Warwick’s market square with a procession led by Guy of Warwick, riding a horse provided by the locally-based Knights of Middle England.
Warwick Town Crier Michael Reddy will then proclaim a formal welcome and officially start the competition, which historically has attracted around 15 criers and their consorts.
The competition will be assessed by four judges.
Michael Reddy said: “The Town Criers Competition is a fantastic day filled with colour, character and tradition. It’s wonderful to welcome criers from across the country to Warwick and to share this historic craft with residents and visitors.
“It’s exciting to have a Junior Competition for the first time this year, giving us a chance to encourage the next generation of this wonderful tradition.”
Town criers historically announced news and proclamations before newspapers and widespread literacy and today continue this heritage through ceremonial duties and competitions.
Warwick Court Leet, one of the few surviving courts of its kind in England, preserves the town’s civic traditions, receives “presentments” from residents, and organises local events such as the Warwick Beer Festival to support charities.
The 2026 Town Criers competition is sponsored by People Arches Limited and the junior event is sponsored by Teepees of Warwick.