A YEAR of events to celebrate Richmond Castle's 950th anniversary has officially been launched.
2021 marks the anniversary that Alan Rufus commissioned the building of the stunning castle and the town is determined not to let the occasion go unrecognised despite the challenges of Covid restrictions.
At noon on Saturday, Richmond Town Crier, Barry Heap, announced the start of a year of events to mark the anniversary.
Mr Heap writes all his proclamations himself, tailored to each occasion, and Saturday's announcement was no different.
In his role of Richmond’s 18th century ‘influencer’ he was able to incorporate key Government messages into his announcement.
Starting with the traditional attention grabber of, ‘Oyez, Oyez, Oyez’ Mr Heap made the following proclamation: "This year, Richmond’s age hits nine-hundred-and-fifty,
"It’s ageing gracefully, like a good malt whisky.
"We bid the town well with a loud ‘alleluia'.
"Now it’s become as old as Methuselah.
There’s events galore this coming year
"So, try to remember we’re in which tier.
"Once you’ve had your vaccination
"You can join in the fun for the whole duration.
"So keep safe and remember, ‘Hands, Face and Space’
"Until we next meet in the Market Place.
"And whilst we are all gathered here,
"May I wish everyone a Happy New Year!
"God save the Queen and the Lords of the Manors."
Barry was accompanied by Ian Woods dressed as Richmond’s Victorian Policeman, Charles Manley, who served in the town for three years in the 1840s.
Following the change in Covid Tiers, the Celebrate Richmond 950 team decided to postpone their plans for a bigger launch of the 950 celebrations.
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