Rugeley
Town Crier
Championship
What is a Town Crier?
Long before newspapers, television or social media, the Town Crier was how communities received their news. Dressed in distinctive livery - tricorn hat, long coat, breeches and bell - the Crier would proclaim important announcements to the public in a loud, clear voice.
The tradition stretches back to the Bayeux Tapestry of 1066, which depicts two bellmen announcing changes of power across the land. Today, fewer than 180 official Town Criers are registered across the UK and Northern Ireland - making this one of Britain's rarest and most colourful traditions.
Ancient Roots
The Bayeux Tapestry depicts bellmen announcing news across the land - a tradition that has endured for almost a thousand years.
A Rare Tradition
Fewer than 180 officially registered Town Criers exist across the UK and Northern Ireland, making this one of Britain's rarest ceremonial roles.
What to Expect on the Day
The Guild Championship is the premier town crier competition in the national calendar. Competitors from across the UK - and beyond - travel to Rugeley to compete for the prestigious Guild Championship title.
Competition Rounds
Each competitor takes their turn at the cry - judged on voice, clarity, projection, costume and originality. Listen out for the bell.
The Championship Title
Competitors battle it out for the stunning silver George Carpenter trophy - the most prestigious prize in town crying.
Charter Fair
The championship takes place alongside Rugeley's Charter Fair - a full day out in the town centre for all the family.
The Essentials
Date
Saturday 6 June 2026
Location
Rugeley Town Centre, Staffordshire
Entry
Completely free - no tickets required. Just turn up.
Suitable for
All ages and families welcome. A great day out for children.
Timings to be confirmed - follow us on Facebook for updates as the event approaches.
Rugeley Charter Fair
The Town Crier Championship takes place alongside Rugeley's Charter Fair - making 6 June a full day of entertainment in the town centre. Come for the crying, stay for everything else.
Adrian Basford
Adrian is the officially registered Town Crier to the Ancient Market Town of Rugeley - and the man bringing the 2026 Guild Championship home to Staffordshire.
"With volume and manner, skills developed in the Armed Forces coupled with public speaking capabilities and a colourful nature, Adrian's role as Town Crier is unique and historic."
A veteran of the Staffordshire Regiment, Adrian also served as Regimental Crier - bringing both military discipline and theatrical flair to every proclamation.
Proudly Supported By
The 2026 Guild Championship is made possible by the generous support of these local businesses and organisations, all proud to invest in their community.
MB Motors
Rugeley's most trusted independent garage, offering dealer-level MOTs, servicing and diagnostics for all makes and models - from everyday cars to prestige vehicles.
mbmotors.com →
Square Peg Promotions
Rugeley-based promotional products, branded merchandise and custom clothing specialists, with a passion for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.
squarepegpromo.co.uk →
Staffordshire Coffee Lounge
Right in the heart of Rugeley on Market Square - freshly prepared food using the best local ingredients, specialty coffees and a warm welcome. Find the clock, find the best food in town.
Find on Facebook →
Webbs Estate Agents
The go-to estate and letting agents for property in Rugeley and across Staffordshire, offering expert local knowledge and a premium service built on trust.
webbsestateagents.co.uk →
Keeren's Kardz & Gifts
Rugeley's favourite gift and greeting card shop in the Brewery Street Shopping Centre - cards for every occasion, balloons, home fragrance and gifts.
keerenskardz.co.uk →
Hurd Solutions
Web design and digital strategy for Staffordshire businesses - building websites that work hard for the people behind them.
hurdsolutions.co.uk →
Deer Rugeley
Capturing the heart of Rugeley through photography, storytelling and creative marketing - helping local businesses shine both online and in the community.
Find on Facebook →
Zephi
A Rugeley-based group offering marketing, IT solutions and fire & security services - helping businesses across Staffordshire grow and stay protected.
zephi.group →
Horse Fair Care Home - Avery Healthcare
A well-established residential and dementia care home in the heart of Rugeley, proudly connected to the local community for over 30 years.
averyhealthcare.co.uk →
Rugeley Town Council
Proudly serving the community of Rugeley - supporting local events and initiatives that celebrate the town's heritage and bring people together.
rugeleytowncouncil.gov.uk →
Hunnypot Cottage Events
Community-focused event organisers running artisan markets and events across Staffordshire and the Midlands - from Barton Marina to Lichfield Bower, supporting independent traders and local communities.
hunnypotcottageevents.co.uk →Don't Miss a Thing
Follow us on Facebook for competitor announcements, behind-the-scenes content, timings and live updates on the day.
Organised by Adrian Basford, Rugeley Town Crier, in association with the Ancient & Honourable Guild of Town Criers.