For centuries, the words "oyez, oyez, oyez," meaning "listen", were a familiar refrain in towns across the UK as town criers bellowed out the latest news.

Now Woodbridge is set to join the tradition of having a town crier to help residents who do not have access to a newspaper or social media keep abreast of the news.

The voluntary role has been set up by the Newsletter Working Party and supported by Woodbridge Town Council and the town crier will be making an appearance on the first Saturday of each month.

The idea was the brainchild of Woodbridge councillor Ruth Leach, amid concerns that residents were increasingly cut off from news affecting their area, while the project also aimed to celebrate heritage.

She said: "I have asked to trial the Woodbridge town crier project for a number of reasons, the most important being that I am looking for ways to reach our residents who do not use social media or read the newspaper. 

"We need to explore different ways to keep these residents up-to-date with what is happening in Woodbridge.

"The project also celebrates our heritage, bringing a sense of pageantry to our market town while creating a bit of community fun during the lovely summer weather."

Former Woodbridge mayor Patrick Gillard is set to be the town crier when the project is launched on Saturday (August 10).

He said:  "I am excited to be the first modern day town crier for Woodbridge.

"Anyone who would like to try is very welcome, including the ladies - you just need to be able to project your voice across the town square."

The announcements will take about ten minutes and will be made at three sites in the town - outside the Shire Hall, in Thoroughfare near Maeve's Tea Room and at Whisstocks Place.

A few items of community news will be read out and residents can get in touch if they would like a birthday, wedding or birth announcement to be included.

Currently, there are about 150 town criers across the UK who often appear in costume, which can include a red and gold coat, breeches, boats and a tricorne hat.

The tradition dates back to the 18th century and the town crier would usually ring a bell to get attention before informing the townspeople of the latest news from the town council, including proclamations, new bylaws and any other important information.

The announcements would usually end with the words "God Save the King or Queen" before being posted onto the door of the local inn for people to read.