Gloucester’s ‘Black Town Crier’ fondly remembered

A MAN who was fondly known as ‘Gloucester’s Black Town Crier’ for dressing flamboyantly has died unexpectedly.

Hogan Bennett has been described as quirky, kind and quick-witted, and was recognised and associated in Gloucester for wearing a Queen’s Irish Guards jacket on special occasions.

The 62-year-old, pictured, from Robinswood had served at functions which Princess Diana and Princess Anne attended and was known for his sunny outlook on life.

Even though he never looked to impersonate an officer, people would demand to know where his jacket was if he was seen without it.

Mr Bennett said he had been likened to the Gloucester Town Crier Alan Myatt because of his red jacket and had been affectionately known as ‘Gloucester’s Black Town Crier’.

He said previously: “There’s a white town crier [Alan Myatt] who I know very well, he’s a friend of mine. Because I dressed similar to him, an Englishman said ‘Have you seen the black town crier?’

Mr Bennett was one of seven sons, and the news of his death has shocked his family as he was often in contact with them and had been speaking to them the night before he died.

His nephew Gary Williams, who lives in London, said: “It is so hard to get used to saying he is not here anymore.”

Mr Williams, 48, said: “Lots of his family lived in London and he used to come and see us all the time.

“I know he was born in Gloucester and went to schools there. He was well known and loved.

“He lived a full life. He lived life enough for everyone.

“He would go to all sorts of events. Each year he would go to the Henley Royal Regatta and the Epsom Down Races. He would never say no to going to an event.”

Mr Bennett was born in the former Gloucester City Hospital. He grew up and lived in Jersey Road in Barton.

During his school life he went to Widden Street Junior School, then on to Kingsholm School which closed but continued after at Hucclecote School.

Mr Bennett then trained at Cheltenham Catering College to become a chef but worked as a Commis chef at a country club in Matson.

After this time Mr Bennett worked all across London. He worked in the silver service and butlering industry for a number of agencies. He even saw Princess Diana during his work and Mr Bennett had described her as ‘lovely’.

Mr Williams said: “He was so eloquent and articulate and I think this is why he did so well working across London in the silver service.”