Tributes Paid to Award-Winning Town Crier Peder Nielsen Following His Death

A council has paid tribute to an award-winning town crier, Councillor Peder Nielsen, who served in the role for 17 years until his recent death, describing his as having a “rousing, spirited voice”. Councillor Nielsen began his tenure as town crier for Bromyard and Wimslow in Herefordshire in 2007. During his time, he represented the locality at various festivals and civic events, and in 2019, the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers recognized him as national champion. The town council issued a statement, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Councillor Peder Nielsen on Monday 2 December.” The statement continued: “Councillors and staff will greatly miss Peder’s cheerful nature, wealth of knowledge, and rousing, spirited voice.” Beyond his duties as town crier, Nielsen was also described as a “devoted” local councillor, having most recently served as chair of the town’s traffic management committee since May, the council further noted. Born in Cheshire, he later made his home in Bromyard alongside his wife, Jan, who survives him. Although he once characterized himself as “a rather shy and retiring” individual, he stated that “thanks to both my wife and the town, I have found a new confidence in myself, for which I’m very grateful”. The Local Democracy Reporting Service, which reports on councils and other public service organizations, compiled this report. For more from BBC Hereford & Worcester, follow on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.