VOICES echoed around sunny Ilminster on Saturday (May 14) as the town crier competition boomed into town.

The number of entries was down due to Covid, but 12 criers - nine men and three women took part.

Eight counties from Surrey to Cornwall and Sussex to Herefordshire sent their best and loudest.

Organiser Andrew Fox said: "We were once again blessed with fine weather, skilled event management, magisterial judging and tremendous help from volunteers.

"The audience were treated to a range of vocal virtuosity about the criers’ home towns and of their interpretation of a theme about ‘The Bar’.

The competitors were made welcome before and after the event at Ilminster Arts Centre and the guest of honour was Ilminster's deputy mayor Leanne Taylor, who presented the prizes.

The competition, which was supported by local businesses, was managed by Mike Fry-Foley, assisted by cadets from Ilminster ACF.

There were also junior town criers Chard, Wareham and Hatherleigh.

RESULTS.

First place and Ilminster Champion: Phil Northcott, Penzance, Cornwall.

Second place, Dillington Cup: Peder Nielsen, Bromyard, Herefordshire.

Third place: Roger Pinder, Kingsbridge, Devon.

Best Dressed Crier: Les Ellis, Dartmouth, Devon.

Best Dressed Escort: Joan Dauncey, Melksham, Wiltshire.

Best Dressed Couple: Phil and Rose Northcott, Penzance, Cornwall.

Best Home Town Ambassador: Phil Northcott, Penzance, Cornwall.

Junior Champion: Sophie Atyeo, Chard, Somerset.