The town crier of St George has resigned and applications have been invited from people interested in filling the role.

E. Michael Jones will hang up his bell and tunic at the end of the month.

Candy-Lee Foggo, the town manager of the Corporation of St George, confirmed yesterday that Mr Jones was standing down but declined to give further details.

She said: “It’s a staffing issue; I have nothing more to say.“

Mr Jones told the Royal Gazette: “It saddens me to have tendered my resignation, visitors to our town, indeed my island home, will always be my priority.

“Thanks to all whose path may have crossed mine and all who have supported me over the last 55 years of my tourism involvement.

“Some 30 years ago, I was appointed as town crier, while serving as a councillor on the St George’s Corporation.

“The voters then decided they would prefer to have me serve as the town Mayor. That was back in 2003 and I was duly elected one month after Hurricane Fabian.

“During that time I was able to visit Lyme Regis, our twin town, and managed to win a number of town crier competitions.”

Mr Jones returned to the position of town crier after a gap of about two decades.

The Gazette reported in 2022 that many world-renowned criers had mentored and trained him over the years.

An article then said that in 16 crier competitions, Mr Jones was European champion, made it to the Top Three in the World Championships and had won both best dressed and best crier ten different times.

He replaced David Frith, who was crier for more than 15 years before being laid off by the Corporation of St George in December 2020.

Mr Jones wrote earlier this week on Facebook: “Oyez Oyez Oyez! My last official day as Town Crier will be June 30. Returning to a life of leisure. Too old and wise for politics.”

The post prompted a stream of replies from supporters and wellwishers, commending the personality for his work.

One commenter wrote: “You're a true professional and a great ambassador for St George’s and Bermuda. Such a shame. Take care.”

Mr Jones insisted online that he would remain in St George working to make sure that visitors had a positive experience.

He wrote in response to another comment: “I’ll be around for our visitors until I can’t. Already have 55 years under my belt with tourism. Tourism is in my blood.“

The corporation placed an advertisement in the Gazette last week seeking a replacement for Mr Jones.

It said: “Embrace the role of town crier in the Town of St George and become an integral part of our historic community, bringing history to life for visitors from around the world.”

The advertisement added that the position was “a vital role in maintaining the historical charm and enhancing visitor experience” in the town.

Key attributes were said to include “a neat appearance” as well as self-motivation and excellent communication skills.

Referring to his replacement, Mr Jones wrote on Facebook: “There will be someone I hope even better than I. But very big shoes to fill.”