Royal proclamations , local bylaws , market days , advertisments and even selling loaves of sugar were all proclaimed by a bellman or town crier for centuries . During Christmas 1798 , the Chester Canal Company sold some sugar that was damaged in their packet boat and this was advertised by the town crier . Royal proclamations , local bylaws , market days , adverts , even selling loaves of sugar were all proclaimed by a bellman or crier throughout the centuriesâ '' at Christmas 1798 , the Chester Canal Co. sold some sugar damaged in their packet boat and this was to be advertised by the bellman .