Here’s something for city to shout about!

TWELVE people in all their finery will compete in Ely's first Town Crier's competition when the city celebrates its fourth annual Eel Day on Saturday, April 28.

The idea was the brainchild of Ely Town Crier Avril Hayter, who felt that the criers, including British and European champions, would bring vibrancy, interest and noise to the city.

They will gather on Palace Green for the first cry of the day on the theme of their own town or city at 10.45am.

The second cry of the day will be held in Jubilee Gardens at 3pm on the theme of the Isle of Ely.

The criers will be judged in several categories under the rules of the Loyal Company of Town Criers by a team of judges including Ely's Mayor, Cllr John Ison, East Cambridgeshire District Council chairman, Cllr Richard Hobbs, and Ely Standard editor Debbie Davies.

As well as the competition, which has been sponsored by a number of leading businesses, Eel Day will include events designed to celebrate the city's heritage and historic association with the eel.

Starting at noon, a carnival style procession led by 'Ellie the Eel', Ely's Samba Band and the 12 Town Criers will start from Cross Green next to the Cathedral and head along part of the City's Eel Trail Heritage Walk, down to the Waterside. The procession will end in the Jubilee Gardens where a host of eel-related activities are planned.

Anyone is welcome to join in the parade, which will include members of Ely's Lantern Studios and children from Ely Barns Group. They have spent their Easter holidays working with local artist John Lyons to help make the event's mascot 'Ellie the Eel'.

Children's theatre and historical re-enactments along with family activities. including a chance to challenge the East Cambridgeshire record for eel throwing and an opportunity to try basket weaving.