Community · Trowbridge
Trowbridge mourns death of long-serving town crier Trevor Heeks at 82
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Trowbridge has lost one of its most familiar faces with the passing of Trevor Heeks, who served as the town crier for over 40 years.
Trowbridge is mourning the loss of a local icon following the death of Trevor Heeks, the town’s beloved town crier, at the age of 82. Mr Heeks, who became a fixture of civic life for more than four decades, passed away peacefully in hospital during the early hours of Saturday, 24 October, surrounded by his family.
His passing comes only days after a poignant final honour. On Wednesday, 21 October, while at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Mr Heeks was presented with the British Empire Medal. The honour had been awarded in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of his extensive service to the Trowbridge community and his long-standing work in twinning, with the medal presented at his bedside by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Dame Sarah Troughton.
Mr Heeks first assumed the role of town crier in September 1986 after proving successful in a public competition. Over the next 40 years, he transformed the position into a central part of the town’s identity, his booming voice and traditional ceremonial dress becoming a staple of local celebrations, parades, and civic events.
His influence extended far beyond the borders of Wiltshire. During his career, he achieved significant success on the competitive stage, winning a world town crier championship and three European championships, alongside more than 160 local, regional, and national titles. He was particularly celebrated for his relationship with the German town of Leer, with which Trowbridge is twinned. For over three decades, he was a guest of honour at the city’s annual Gallimarkt, and in October 2025, he was invited to sign the city’s Golden Book to mark his enduring commitment to the friendship between the two communities.
Former Trowbridge mayor Stephen Cooper paid tribute to Mr Heeks, describing him as a constant presence whose work spanned generations of residents. Councillor Cooper noted that Mr Heeks had spent his life displaying an irrepressible sense of duty and loyalty to the town he served. He added that while Mr Heeks would be incredibly missed, his legacy would remain a permanent part of Trowbridge’s history.
The Trowbridge Chamber of Commerce also expressed its sorrow, stating that Mr Heeks left behind a significant void in the community. The organisation noted that his distinctive bell ringing and vocal presence would be remembered in the hearts of those who knew him for a long time to come.
Mr Heeks made his final public appearance at Parade House in Trowbridge on 18 September.
Source: Wiltshire Times — Trowbridge · View original