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Robin Burfoot, Rochester Town Crier dies aged 81

Rochester Town Crier, Frank Robin Burfoot, has died.

Mr Burfoot, known as Robin, lived in Rochester and passed away yesterday morning due to heart failure.

The 81-year-old was a husband to June, father to Neil, Clive and Richard and grandfather to Laura, Hollie, Scarlett, Tom and Sarah.

Robin Burfoot
Robin Burfoot

Mr Burfoot was appointed by Medway Council in 2004. Over 13 years he became an iconic figure of Rochester and despite facing health problems in recent times, he chose to continue in the role he loved so much.

His bellowing voice, poetry and bell ringing could be heard every Saturday in Rochester High Street since he took up the position until his health began to deteriorate.

In his post as Town Crier he also attended festivals and events, including the Royal Marine Page Turning service at Rochester Cathedral, charity functions, school fetes, and took part in the Hasting Town Criers competition every year.

Robin will be buried in his Town Crier uniform and his Tricorn hat and bell will be placed on the coffin at his funeral. The bell will then be taken to the Guildhall Museum for safe keeping.

Medway Council’s head of community services, Cllr Howard Doe, said: “This is very sad news for Medway and its residents.

Town Crier Robin Burfoot
Town Crier Robin Burfoot

"Many people, especially those living and working in Rochester, will have known Robin for many years, and even those who didn’t know him would have recognised his strong bellowing voice from events and festivals.

“He embraced every part of his role as Town Crier and will be greatly missed.”

The Mayor of Medway, and Rochester West ward councillor Stuart Tranter, said: “He was part of the community of Rochester and part of the fun.

“It’s incredibly sad that he will no longer be there.

“I can still place him next to the war memorial telling everyone what was going on.
“He did a wonderful job.”

Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst said: “I am saddened by the news that Robin had passed away. He will be missed, a lovely man who was committed to upholding the traditions of a town crier.

"He was an important part of our community and will be missed across the towns.”

Details of Mr Burfoot’s funeral have not yet been released.

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