OYEZ, OYEZ! The search for an official March town crier has begun. If you want to shout about all that’s great in March, then now’s the time to come forward and get involved.

Entertainer Robert Freeman has already offered to do the job free if charge, but on Monday March Town Council decided to open up the search for a town crier to see if anyone else wants to be considered.

Town clerk Clive Lemmon explained: “If there are other people who want to take on the job, we could have a competition to find our first town crier. Although Robert Freeman has offered to do the job, it was felt that the council must give other people an equal chance to come forward. At the end of the day, the process has got to be transparent and fair.”

The post will initially be just for one year, and there are plans for the new town crier to make their debut on St George’s Day, Monday April 23. It is hoped the new town crier will help publicise events in the town, and accompany the mayor of some duties.

“The appointment will run alongside the mayoral year,” said Clive, The first appointment will run until May 2013. The town crier will come under the auspices of March Town Council, and no activities can be undertaken without the council’s permission.”

Councillor David Connor of Doddington has already offered to pay up to �350 to kit out the new town crier, saying “I think March needs livening up a bit.” St Neots town crier has offered to donated a bell.

Anyone wanting to apply for the job, or get more information, is asked to contact the council clerk, Clive Lemmon, by phoning 01354 653709 on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday between 8.30am and 4pm, or write to him at the town hall. The closing date is February 23.