A GATHERING of town criers descended on Kingsteignton for the return of its annual competition.

The town rang out with tradition as the criers battled it out for the top spot at the event, held at the Community Hall.

Organised and hosted by Kingsteignton Town Crier Jackie Edwards and council staff, the competition welcomed 12 fellow criers and their consorts from across the UK, including visitors from as far afield as Nuneaton.

Jackie also had the sad duty of announcing the news of the recent death of former Newton Abbot Town Crier, Mr Ken Purchase, and a minutes silence was honoured by all, in respect of Ken, who had been a well-respected friend and Jackie’s mentor in becoming a town crier.

The competition began in the community hall grounds, with the traditional call of ‘Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!’ as each crier took their turn to impress the judges with their clarity, diction, volume, and inflection.

Each participant delivered two cries: the first celebrating their home town, and the second, a more humorous tribute to Kingsteignton, often touching on local quirks, including the ever-contentious debate over the correct way to serve a cream tea.

After a lively morning of performances, attendees enjoyed a buffet lunch, followed by the awards ceremony led by Mayor Cllr Dave Ripping, who proudly presented the day’s honours.

Winners this year were Paul Gough, town crier of Nuneaton and Bedworth with David Green of Torpoint second and third place went to David Craner from Verwood and Crewkerne.

Best dressed couple were local rivals Bob and Heather Graham from Dawlish.

Best dressed crier was Rosalind Charlton-Chard from Hatherleigh Manor and best dressed consort was Sandy Goodwin from Axminster.

The day concluded with heartfelt thanks extended to the judges, the volunteers in the kitchen, and the town council staff who helped make the event such a resounding success.

Following the competition Bob and Heather Graham were congratulated by Dawlish Town Council.

A spokesman said: ‘Their eye-catching attire and warm presence made Dawlish proud, standing out among criers and consorts from across the UK. What an incredible achievement.

‘Well done to all who took part, and especially to Bob and Heather, you both looked absolutely splendid.’