Britain ‘seeks court jester’
English Heritage, guardian of various historic sites in Britain, is advertising for someone to be the nation’s first court jester since 1649.

The advertisement for the job says the successful applicant “Must be mirthful and prepared to work summer weekends in 2005. Must have own outfit (with bells). Bladder on stick provided if required.” Auditions will be held Saturday in Warwickshire, and the winner’s salary must be negotiated.