Shouting match for new town crier

People competed over the weekend to become the new crier

Would-be town criers have battled it out to ring the bells and shout out the news in a Kent town.

Auditions for a new town crier in St Peters and Broadstairs were held over the weekend as the area's existing crier has resigned.

Paul Conyers-Silverthorn has hung up his red, frilly cap and stepped down after five years in the post.

John Myhill has been named as his successor after out-shining the other shouting-match competitor.

The ancient post was revived in the town in 1999, after a gap of sixty years, and Mr Myhill has been welcomed into the traditional role by Councillor Hadley Sparham who says no town is complete without a crier.

I want to do it because I love the place and admittedly because I am a bit of a show off John Myhill, new town crier

Cllr Sparham said: I think it is for the good of the town... and it is nice to have someone stand up there and tell everyone what is happening.

"It's colourful too, I mean we're an old town and it's nice to have someone keep up the tradition."

The now ex-town crier Paul Conyers-Silverthorn, who is stepping down because if his health, said the job has simple rules and disciplines.

He said: "You have to think on your feet, tell people about things you think are interesting and just make sure they hear you."

John Myhill beat the other finalist Bob Barras at the auditions and will now be given his own hat, cape and bell, as well as £1,000 a year by the council.

Mr Myhill said he will feel proud when he shouts about the town.

He said: "I live in the centre of the town and I am proud of living here and love Broadstairs and St Peters.

"I want to do it because I love the place and admittedly because I am a bit of a show-off."