MIRFIELD’S hero town crier is hoping to find a sponsor for a tailor-made costume.
Russell Booth, 50, made headlines on his first day when he helped evacuate Mirfield’s Co-op store after a fire broke out.
Former film and TV extra Russell cleared the aisles of staff and shoppers by ringing his bell and raising the alarm.
Russell had to borrow a hat and clothing for the new role and now hopes his high profile start will help him find a sponsor for an outfit of his own.
Russell borrowed a tri-cornered hat and cape from former Mayor of Mirfield Clr David Pinder and a shirt and waistcoat from Dewsbury town crier Laurie Gilbert.
Russell looked just splendid for his first public appearance – but some youngsters mistook him for a pirate!
Now he hopes a benefactor will help him buy a £600 outfit from specialist town crier tailor Simon Brookes so he can be impeccably turned out on his next civic duty.
“It would be great if someone could help me out,” said Russell.
“The role is all about promoting Mirfield and helping the town and its people and I want to look the part.”
As reported in the Examiner, Russell’s first engagement was the Mirfield Coronation Dance Festival on Saturday, June 8.
But just 15 minutes into his first appearance a blaze broke out at the rear of the town centre Co-op supermarket nearby and Russell dashed to help.
His actions could earn him an award from West Yorkshire Fire Service.
Russell, a former DJ and radio presenter, was a film extra in the 1980s appearing alongside the likes of Anthony Hopkins in Across the Lake and Jeremy Irons in Australia.
Russell, who later became a teacher, has also appeared in television soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale and also in the drama Frost.
Russell said he had been really well received and hoped to become a figurehead for the town.
Anyone who can help can e-mail Russell on russbooth@hotmail.co.uk
