Exmouth Town Crier - The best in Devon
On this page follow the exploits of Exmouth's Town Crier, Tregarthon Gibson, known to all, as Garth
Garth is not just the Town Crier, he is also a writer of note. He has published two books entitled 'Exmouth her Age of Elegance' and 'Oh Yez, Oh Yez , Oh Yez' the story of a Town Crier.
Both books can be purchased from local bookshops, Halsgrove Publishers, Halsgrove House, Tiverton or on line from http://www.halsgrove.com/ Just type Garth Gibson in the search box.
Garth was appointed the Millennium Town Crier of Exmouth in the year 2000. That gives Garth something to shout about, which he does on a regular basis - usually on a SATURDAY before noon, from the Magnolia Centre. The forecast, not necessarily of the weather, but 'What's on in Town', interests and activities, special functions in which both residents and visitors could or might like to be involved. This 'Shout' is often carried to other parts of the town, and when the question is asked, 'Have you seen the Town Crier', the reply given is 'Nevermind, have you seen him! Have you heard him?'
It was said of Exmouth's much beloved Town Crier that he was 'hailed as a true ambassador', and to mark the occassion of the award of Citizen of the Year 2003, the Rotary Club of Exmouth presented him with an engraved Dartington Glass Rose Bowl.
He was acknowledged as an author when 'Exmouth - her age of Elegance' was published. Much of the prestige and his great love of Exmouth is based upon his relationship with people. For example - his regalia in its entirity is the product of those who live and work in the town.
The livery is based traditionally on a gentleman of 1709. Made of selected material, it could and does represent Exmouth. The embroidery is magnificent, much admired as is the total livery costume. The Jabot is of Honiton Lace and is exquisite as are the lace additions, buckles and buttons typical of the town.
Even in the absence of a SHOUT - Tregarthon is a figure who stands alone representing EXMOUTH and has often been awarded the 'best dressed' at National Town Crier Championships.
In addition to his civic duties, he visits Voluntary Bodies, Care and Rest Homes, gives talks on a variety of topics, represents Exmouth at Town Crier Competitions. He enjoys meeting visitors to Exmouth from near and far and is sure to give all of them a hearty welcome.
Garth Wins top Title
On Saturday 25th June 2005 the Devon County Championships of Town Criers was held at Witheridge by a Charter dated 1210 to hold a fair of St John in the Town. The Competition was organised under the Rules and Regulations laid down by the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers.
Our own Town Crier 'Garth' was successful in winning the title of Devon County Champion 2005.
Congratulations Garth - a true ambassador for Exmouth.
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Now here is Garth as you have never seen him before. A tiny military sized model of Garth in full regalia, perfect in every detail. Made and presented to Garth by Brian Parker of The Royal British Legion - Exmouth Branch - September 2006.
