Petersfield Town Criers Invited to Witness Historic Peace Treaty
On Sunday, September 1st, Petersfield Town Crier Faye Thompson and Deputy Town Crier Martin Johnson were invited to officiate the proceedings at the long-overdue 1660 Treaty of Peace signing between Gosport and Portsmouth.
The event took place at Gosport’s newly established Public Open Space at Bastion No1, Trinity Green, a site recently restored under the Gosport High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) initiative. This restoration project was led by Rob Harper, the former Conservation Officer for Gosport Borough Council (GBC).
Portsmouth Lord Mayor Jason Fazackarley and Worshipful Mayor of Gosport Richard Earle were the first to sign the historic document, marking a symbolic moment of reconciliation. They were followed by members of the Gosport Society, Portsmouth Society, Friends of Bastion No1, Haslar Heritage Group, Gosport History Club, and Gosport U3A History members. Also in attendance and signing the peace treaty, were Councillor Kirsten Bradley, Deputy Mayor of Gosport, and Ms. Helen L. Mitchell, Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth.
Adding to the event’s authenticity, members of The Marques of Winchester Regiment from the English Civil War Society participated in full 1660-era uniforms. They enhanced the historical atmosphere by delivering a powerful salute with a six-pounder cannon.
Funds raised during the event were generously donated to the Gosport Mayor’s Appeal and the English Civil War Society, supporting their ongoing community and historical endeavors.
This memorable event not only commemorated a significant historical milestone but also celebrated the continued collaboration and shared heritage of Gosport and Portsmouth.
Petersfield Town Criers – Martin Johnson & Faye Thompson, signing the peace treaty.
The Marquess of Winchester’s Regiment of the English Civil War Society was happy to provide a 1660s escort and an artillery piece to salute the signing!