Petersfield's Town Crier
Faye Thompson's Eventful Year!
It’s been a whirlwind of activity for Petersfield’s beloved Town Crier, Faye Thompson, who has been an energetic presence in our community throughout the past year. Here’s a recap of all the exciting events and activities Faye has been involved in, bringing colour, joy, and a sense of tradition to Petersfield.
Autumn 2023 - Time Travel with Steampunk Flair
Last October, Faye was joined by the Gosport Steampunk Society on Petersfield Square for a fun and timely reminder—literally! The group helped residents turn back their clocks, blending historical tradition with a quirky, futuristic twist.
March 2024: Peter S Field’s Debut and Crafting History
In March, Faye introduced a new character to the town, the delightful knitted mascot Peter S Field, also known affectionately as ‘Woolly’. Created to highlight Petersfield’s woollen trade heritage, Woolly quickly became a familiar sight around town, popping up in local shops and championing our independent traders.
That same month, Faye rolled up her sleeves for Community Tree Planting Day, helping to plant a Lime tree at Butser Ancient Farm—an event that beautifully blended heritage with environmental care.
Introducing Peter S Field Town Crier's New Knitted Mascot
April 2024: Town Criers Unite in Warwick
April saw Faye travelling to Warwick to participate in a Town Criers competition, where she proudly proclaimed Petersfield to her fellow criers. Not only did she spread the word about our wonderful town, but she also received a gift and medal from the Mayor of Warwick and their own Town Crier, strengthening the ties between our communities.
May 2024: A Royal Proclamation and New Mascot
On 6 May, Faye joined hundreds of Town Criers from the UK, Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man to mark the first anniversary of King Charles and Queen Camilla’s Coronation. Later in the month, she introduced us to her newest companion—a Collie pup named Badger, who symbolises the important role of working dogs in our local farmland and countryside.
A Busy Summer: Events Galore
Summer was a season of non-stop events, with Faye lending her booming voice to everything from business openings to community festivals including GetClobr’s Abba Night, St Peter’s Church Flower Festival, the grand opening of the Omi Clinic and Dylan’s Ice Cream Parlour. Petersfield’s CARRR Boot Sale and the Big Archaeological Dig by the Petersfield and Liss Historical Society. Petersfield’s Eco Fair on Petersfield Heath. And let’s not forget the official appointment of Martin Johnson as Petersfield’s Deputy Town Crier, bringing his musical flair to the role and becoming an integral part of our community’s celebrations.
August 2024: Twinning and Festivals
In August, Faye cried at Fitzroy’s Summer Fete and had the honour of meeting Mayor Peter Horstmann of Warendorf during the Twinning Association reception, a significant moment of international friendship. She also cheered on her husband Martin as he took the stage at a Town Crier competition in Dawlish, where Faye was awarded for her impeccable attire as the best-dressed consort.
Pam H Shire Joins the Mascot Family
By mid-August, Peter S Field had found a knitted companion, Pam H Shire (a knitted black eco-sheep), who was named through a competition. The competition to pick the ewe’s name took place in The Petersfield Bookshop. Winner of the knitted lamb was fellow Town Crier, Sonya Hauxwell of Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire.
Autumn & Beyond: Festivities and Future Plans
Faye and Martin continued their busy schedule into the autumn, including proclaiming Petersfield’s Taro Fair and signing the overdue 1660 peace treaty alongside the mayors of Gosport and Portsmouth in September. As the colder months draw in, Peter S Field and Pam H Shire have cosied up, but Faye and Martin are gearing up for a festive season filled with community events.
Stay tuned as they continue to make appearances around town, spreading cheer and celebrating all that makes Petersfield unique!
