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It is with regret that we give notice of the death of
William Chapman,
Crier of Newent Gloucestershire.
Condolences to his family and friends for their loss.
The funeral will be Private.
COMMUNITY SAYS FAREWELL TO TOWN CRIER
Report from The Citizen newspaper 09:00 - 14 May 2007
Newent is mourning the loss of one of its most colourful characters - town crier Willium Chapman.
His death will come as a shock to many people who became used to seeing him at the Onion Fair each year.
Willium, aged 87, died in the early hours of Friday at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital following a chest infection. His passion as a crier was forged many years ago when he answered a job advert in Wimborne Minster in Dorset.
He moved to Gloucestershire in the early 90s with his late wife, Doris, and volunteered his services to Newent Town Council, where he insisted on being called Willium, rather than William.
Willium was in the Royal Army Medical Corp during the war and his work led to him become a paramedic in London and Dorset before retiring in the early 80s.
His son-in-law, the Rev Geoff Crago, said: "He had quite a loud voice, although not so much in recent years. He always laughed about how it wasn't as loud as that of the crier in Gloucester, Alan Myatt, who I believe has an especially loud voice."
Good friend Bill Offord said he was shocked and saddened by Willium's death. He said: "I went to visit him last week. He was certainly a very colourful character in dress and manner. He did a lot for Newent and attracted many tourists. He had a very commanding voice. He will be missed greatly."
Willium was in uniform most Saturdays and took part in many special events over the years. He was particularly pleased to be involved in the re-establishment of the Newent Onion Fair, which has become a well-attended annual event."
Town Clerk Deirdre Rosser said: "He was a really well-known figure in town and I'm sure he will be missed by everyone, including the visitors, who used to look forward to seeing him at events."
Willium leaves daughter Christine, son-in-law Geoff and granddaughters Clare and Anna. His funeral will be a private cremation and it is hoped that a memorial service will be arranged soon.
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