COUNCILLORS have agreed that Wellington has plenty to shout about and they now want to find someone who can do all the shouting - a town crier!

Members of Wellington Town Council agreed at their latest monthly meeting to go-ahead with a search for a new town crier who will be able to bellow out good news and information when required.

The idea had come about following a discussion at the council’s policy and resources committee held on January 20.

It had also been suggested the council look at taking on a Portreeve as well - although there seemed to be confusion as to what that role entailed.

One suggestion was that a Portreeve was an official who kept a check on weights and measurements of ale and bread.

Cllr Mike McGuffie quipped: "Are they going to weigh the bread in Greggs?"

It would appear that the role of a Portreeve - a high-ranking supervisory official - has changed over the years with it being likened at one time to that of a Mayor.

Cllr John Thorne said: "Is a Portreeve a Mayor? We’ve already got a Mayor!"

Cllr Nancy Powell-Brace said: "I fully support the idea of a town crier - it’s quirky and it gives people something to talk about."

Councillors agreed to go-ahead with launching a search for a Wellington town crier, but deferred making a decision on the idea of a Portreeve until more information had been gained.

Wellington has not had a town crier for a number of years.

* If you think you have what it takes to be the town’s next town crier, contact the town council on 01823 662855 or via [email protected]