These walks with Paul Goring are hugely sought after and always a sell-out in Rye arts week: this was no exception.
Paul was appointed deputy town crier in 2016 and became the town crier and town sergeant in 2018. The walk began with his usual cry of “Oyez, Oyez!”, which comes from a Norman French word meaning hear me or listen. Indeed, all the walkers listened, because Paul was so informative about the unique, quirky and often surprising facts about the history of Rye. Paul makes history entertaining and fun.
Andrew Bamji, who took part in the walk, commented afterwards:
“Paul, the town crier’s, walk round ‘Hidden Rye’ on Tuesday, September 14 as part of the arts festival was comprehensive and very interesting. He pointed out several wall inscriptions, and details such as the two cannon embedded in Strand Quay to protect the corners of two warehouses, which even Rye residents on the tour had not noticed before.
“He also gave us a short history of smuggling and of the various witches (and ghosts) of the town, not forgetting Rye’s literary luminaries. He left us with a vision of the ancient harbour, where 350 ships could anchor and where sheep now graze.”
Image Credits: kt bruce .
Many thanks for that cracking review! Glad you enjoyed the walk!