A town crier worthy of the 21st century is being sought to help boost an independent market and help foster community spirit.


Trader Sandra Dean, 51, of Wallwood Road in Leytonstone, has launched a search for a man or woman to spread the word when the E11 market is open in Leytonstone.
 

But despite applicants requiring the traditional skills such as a loud voice and an efficient bell-ring technique, they must also be well-versed in new technology to ensure they can spread the word far and wide.
 

The mother-of-two launched the market just three weeks ago after deciding to sell her home-made jewellery near to her home.
 

Other traders were quick to join her and now several stalls operate on Saturdays outside Matalan, selling jewellery, homemade spicy sauces, organic vegetables, cupcakes and greeting cards.
 

Mrs Dean said: "It’s been lots of fun so far and it’s made Leytonstone feel that bit more friendly.
 

"People talk and chat with each other at market stalls much more than in a shop for some reason.
 

"But it’s just the start. A town crier would let people know about us but could shout about offers from other shops and even if West Ham or Leyton Orient score a goal.
 

"It’s an English tradition but it all but disappeared with the written word. I’d like to update it for the modern day."
 

And Mrs Dean plans to create a Twitter account to help the town crier spread the word. 
 

She said: "I think it would really bolster the community spirit. Having a friendly face promoting Leytonstone would encourage people to use the market and shops more."


Fellow jewellery maker and stallholder Karen Hattersley, 45, added: "It’s a great idea. Leytonstone can get overlooked by people and they don’t see it as a traditional place for a market.
 

"But a town crier could help bring people here and create a strong community."
 

Anyone who is interested can send an email to e11market@yahoo.com, and auditions will be organised soon.