Town crier in West Maas en Waal

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The Municipality of West Maas en Waal has a village crier. In the past, the village crier was the one who spread the news and gathered people for important events. "In this modern era, we want to revive this tradition occasionally. It adds a personal and special touch to events," says Mayor Vincent van Neerbos.

Powerful voice

André Velders serves as the village crier. With his powerful voice and enthusiastic personality, he is perfect for this role. He will make his voice heard during special events, keeping everyone informed about what’s happening in our villages.

Alderman Marieke van den Boom-Witzel: "I think this is wonderful. My father, Peer Witzel, was a village crier in West Maas en Waal. I have such fond memories of that. I think many residents do too. A village crier perfectly suits our municipality, in my opinion. It's wonderful that André Velders is now taking this on."

Growing into his role

What started as a bit of fun during the Dickens Festival in Druten has turned into a real hobby for the 64-year-old driving school owner. “I really enjoy it and have immersed myself in it completely. I’ve been to England, where they still practice this ancient profession quite a bit. That was amazing; I learned a lot there. I’m now a member of the First Association of Town and Village Town Criers of the Netherlands (EVSDON). With this Town Crier Guild, I participate in competitions in the Netherlands, Belgium, and even Germany. And not without some success, I must say. There, I promote our beautiful municipality as a worthy ambassador. It’s a lot of fun; I meet town criers from all sorts of places there. And I learn something new every time from those ‘old hands in the trade,’ says a beaming André.”

André Velders has already 'performed' several times as a village crier in the Municipality of West Maas en Waal. "If I can combine it with my work, I'll be there," says village crier Velders.