Hear ye, hear ye – Elliot is new town crier
EX-Standard Bearer Elliot Fraser will be the town’s new crier.
The 50-year-old, of Thirlestane Terrace, takes over from Morris Manson who has held the post with aplomb for 10 years,
Souter Elliot was asked to take on the role and agreed, explaining his reasoning: “It’s good to help people in the town. I’m looking forward to meeting people. I’m apprehensive, but very excited at the same time. I’ve never done anything like this – I’ve spoken in public, but never shouted at people!”
His daughter Jade, 22, who was working in child care in Cyprus, returned to Selkirk on Wednesday. Asked about her reaction to his new role, Elliot said: “She had a good laugh!”
The job includes dressing in the crier’s uniform and officiating at public and private events.
The Scottish Borders Housing Association painter and decorator is not sure yet of the uniform: “I’ve only seen photographs in the paper and the hat, but my friends would say I’m not averse to dressing up now and again.”
Elliot was the Royal Burgh Standard Bearer in 1988 and is a former chairman of the Ex-Standard Bearers.
Morris talks of his decade as the town crier with affection.
He told The Wee Paper: “Every year had highlights, but I do remember when somebody came over from Canada to see one of the court cases (re-enacted during Scott’s Selkirk) because their ancestor was the plaintiff in that case. They knew the whole story.”
He explained his decision to stand down: “It’s been wonderful to be part of things as the town crier for 10 years, but I’m getting on.”
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Weather for Selkirk
Saturday 18 May 2013
Today
Heavy rain
Temperature: 8 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North east
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