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For over 25 years Peter Moore, a Freeman of the City of London has been appointed as London's very own Town Crier. He leads a very diverse life, one moment leading a parade, the next opening a school fete or welcoming visitors to London. One of the most recognisable sights on the capital's streets, his uniform consists of scarlet robes trimmed in gold with a Georgian ruff on his shirt. White breeches, black boots and a tricorn hat adorned with ostrich plumes complete the picture. His splendid attire was made by Ede & Ravenscroft of Chancery Lane who are ceremonial robe makers to Her Majesty the Queen.

If this doesn't attract your attention, then the sound of Peter's ringing bell or roaring voice certainly will. His bell was cast at the world famous Whitechapel Bell Foundry which was founded in 1570 and boasts such famous ringers as Big Ben and the American Liberty Bell. He is often to be found around many of London's most historic monuments.

The job of Town Crier can be traced back as far as 1066, when news of Britain's first (and last) invasion by King William I after the Battle of Hastings was passed from town to town by word of mouth through men specifically employed to call out the King's proclamation. In the summer months, Hastings now hosts the annual Town Criers' competition where many of Great Britain's hundred or so Town Criers gather to see who can bark the loudest and clearest!

The familiar call of "Oyez" means literally "hark" or "hear this" and the Town Crier was invaluable to the majority of the population who remained largely illiterate until the turn of the 20th century. Imparting news, major new laws, proclamations and edicts therefore became a major part of the Town Crier's brief, and people would gather at the sound of the Town Crier's bell. In this way people were also made aware of battle victories, executions, royal births, or even lost children!

By carrying on this honourable tradition, Peter Moore in addition to his weekly duties appears at many London events through the year issuing proclamations at festivals, shows, parades and celebrations. Peter's proudest moment was announcing the birth of Prince William as new heir to the Throne outside the gates of Buckingham Palace. His proudest boast is ""never losing my voice!""

For more information on the Town Crier of London, take a look at his website www.londontowncrier.com