As our fire safety manager with a career spanning 33 years, Kev is responsible for ensuring compliance with fire legislation across all our sites, from Carlisle to Crewe and everything in between. He conducts risk assessments, delivers training, and develops personal evacuation plans for those who need them. “It’s a mammoth task,” he says.

In his spare time, Kev has taken on a rather unique role outside of his job in Team NWAS. Earlier this year, he was officially appointed Southport’s Town Crier by Sefton Council, the first in 36 years.

The idea came after seeing a town crier in Knaresborough and feeling inspired. When he learned that Southport, the town where he lives with his wife, didn’t have one, he pitched the idea to the council, and the rest is history.

Entirely voluntary, the role varies week to week. Kev’s appearances have included the Armed Forces Festival, the British Musical Fireworks Championships, and even wedding anniversaries, writing bespoke proclamations and poems for each occasion.

Being a Town Crier may seem theatrical, but there’s real skill involved. Confidence in public speaking is essential, of course, but creativity is equally important.

“Writing a proclamation is a craft,” Kev says. “They need to be short, relevant, engaging, and, where possible, fun! People think AI can do it these days, but each one takes real thought. I rewrite them several times before I’m happy.”

He’s also had to improvise on the spot, making spontaneous birthday shout-outs and messages for passers-by.

“It’s nice to do something that brings people joy. Being part of something that brings pleasure to people and adds value to their experiences is a real privilege.”

Kev’s ceremonial outfit, or livery as it is known, is based on a Georgian military tunic, complete with gold braid, breeches, and a tri-corn hat. He owns multiple versions to suit the occasion and the weather.

While balancing NWAS duties, Kev also finds time to represent the service as a town crier. He participated in the VE Day 80th anniversary event at Estuary Point and the opening of our new Hazardous Area Response Team official station in Anfield last year. He says, “There are strict protocols about attending events in other areas, so I’m limited as to where I can attend outside of the Sefton area without following specific protocols.”

With around 200 town criers across the UK, mainly in the South, the North West has a handful, including in Chester, Darwen, Lytham St Annes and now Southport, thanks to Kev.