ALTON’S former town crier has turned his hand from crying to writing with the publication of his first book.

Entitled A Crier’s Rhymes the book is packed with poems and rhymes Stan Whitcher has written over the years, with topics ranging from Christmas stuffing to computers, and from potholes to rhubarb.

Witty and wide ranging they not only give an insight into Stan’s colourful and eventful life but beneath the humour there lurks a great deal of basic common sense.

Described as “advanced in age” and with “no qualifications for anything”, Stan was taught to thatch by his father, later “taking on any work that came his way” and so made a living.

A fascination in the arts came later in life and the nerve to participate later still, but participate he did, becoming an active member of the Medstead Players, keen on song, dance and amateur stage productions.

A town crier for 13 years, Stan is often invited to speak about this experience and to recite his poetry with the warmth and enthusiasm for which he has become well known.

Composed over many years, according to Stan the very first poem he wrote came from a sunny autumn morning whilst walking down a leafy lane. It led to many more words of wisdom stemming from observations and a colourful imagination.

Stan Whitcher will be signing copies of his book in Porters newsagents in Alton High Street from 10am on Tuesday (November 19), with support from Alton mayor, Graham Titterington.