The Jolly Jester, Robert Freeman who is hoping to become the Town Crier for March

MARCH moved a step closer to having its own town crier today after a Fenland councillor offered to pay for the £350 costume.

David Connor

Councillor David Connor made the gesture after we revealed that entertainer Robert Freeman would be happy to take on the role indefinitely - and for free.

Mr Freeman, who was turned down for the role last year for financial reasons, said all he needs is a £350 costume bearing March’s town colours.

Cllr Connor, who represents Doddington on Fenland District Council and runs a scrapyard in Commercial Road, March, said: “I think it’s a good idea.

“I am prepared to pay the £350 to buy his robes if March Town Council and the powers that be want to take him up on his offer, and providing he does what he says.

“I think March needs livening up a bit and he will be a good asset to put the town and the surrounding villages back on the map.”

March Town Council is now set to discuss the idea once again when it meets next month.

Mr Freeman, a boy magician who turned professional in 1970, was the British Tourist Authority’s Jester for Britain for 15 years. He moved to Fenland in 2007 but continued his performance roles, carrying out town crier duties in Luton in recent years.

He said he was delighted to hear of Mr Connor’s gesture and added: “I have a friend who lives in Wimblington who can make the costume - she has made a couple of jester costumes for me in the past.

“If the council goes ahead with the idea I will approach her about making another one for me.”