The new Southport Town Crier has looked back with pride on his successful first year, where he was judged to be one of the best town criers in the UK – and worked tirelessly to welcome visitors coming to Southport.
Kevin Ruane MBE took up his post in May this year, taking on a role which had been vacant for several years.
The former firefighter has become a regular sight at a series of major events and community gatherings.
Southport Town crier Kevin Ruane MBE said:
“Oyez, Oyez, Oyez… What a fantastic first year.
“Reflecting on my first year as your Town Crier, I can only describe it as an absolute whirlwind of a year, full of joy and tradition.
“Since May 2025, the bell has been ringing non-stop, and I’ve had the immense privilege of being at the heart of so many of our community’s most iconic moments.
“I’ve had the great honour of opening the Southport Air Show, the flavour-filled Southport Food & Drink Festival, the horticultural festival that is the Southport Flower Show and the spectacular British Musical Fireworks Championships. But the magic doesn’t stop at the big festivals. I’ve loved every moment spent supporting our town’s grassroots talent at the Southport Young Musicians Competition and so many local businesses that make Southport shine.
“As a former soldier, it was a deeply personal honour to stand with my fellow veterans on Armed Forces Day. I attended the most poignant 80th-anniversary commemorations of VE and VJ Day at North West Ambulance Service Headquarters.
“I’ve provided tradition, honour, and heritage at all my events, whether I was performing the ancient Ale Conner ceremony or adding a ceremonial flourish to a private wedding anniversary ceremony, bringing heritage to life is what I enjoy doing best.
“I’ve taken Southport’s voice on the road, and after clinching 4th and 2nd place in my first two regional competitions, I’m fired up and ready for more. I’ll be taking the lessons I’ve learned from those competitions straight to the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers, British Town Crier Championships this June in Staffordshire where I’m aiming to do even better on a national level.
“All of these fantastic events were made even better by the warmest of welcomes that I’ve received, wherever I’ve appeared. The impromptu proclamations requested by people on the streets whilst visiting Southport, which were sometimes challenging, but made it even more fun.
“The thanks I’ve received from people for supporting them and their events and the smiles that I’ve seen whilst doing them have been fantastic. It’s been amazing to be a small part of what makes this fantastic town so very special.
“In 2026, Southport is going to be a totally amazing place to be and it’s really shaping up with some fantastic events throughout the year. So why not make your 2026 event unforgettable and let me be part of your story.
“If you’re looking to inject some magic, a dash of historic style, and the unmistakable roar of a bespoke proclamation into your next event, from grand openings to private parties, let’s make it legendary. Get in touch today before my calendar is full and let’s make some noise.
“May you all enjoy a fantastic and prosperous 2026 and let’s have a most amazing year together.
“God Save the King!”
- For more details about Southport’s Town Crier please visit the Southport Town Crier page on Facebook or email: southport.officialtowncrier@outlook.com
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