TOWN criers from across the country gathered in Trowbridge Town Park on Sunday (July 26) to battle it out for The Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers championships.

Hosted by Trowbridge’s very own town crier Trevor Heeks, the Guild Championships saw some of the top public announcers in the UK face off in multiple categories, including guild champion, best dressed crier and best cry content.

The most awards were won by Christian Ashdown, representing Haslemere, who was victorious in the best dressed crier, the Bob Walker trophy and best cry content, before finishing runner up in the main competition.

He just missed out on the Guild Champion award to Paul Gough, representing Nuneaton and Bedworth, while the best dressed couple went to Kevin and Melanie Knapp from Sturminster Newton.

Mr Heeks said: “We had a great turnout with one of the biggest turnouts to a guild competition this year. The competition was very good and there were some marvellous choirs.

“The difference between the 1st and the 3rd place in the main competition was so close and I think everyone reached their full potential. We look for volume and clarity, as well as dictation and content.

“Choirs came from far and wide to take part and the day itself was lovely despite the poor weather conditions. Paul Gough was a worthy winner and was excellent on the day.”

The competition was sponsored by Trowbridge Town Council E.J. Shanley & Son, Howard Travel, 1st Call Skips, Bath Midway Litho, Trowbridge Windows, apetito, Bilbo’s Bags and The Old Sweet Works.

Other sponsors included Marks Barbers, Silk Money, Beez Neez, D.M.C. Auto Engineers, Peter Wilkinson, HB Pitts, Fabric Magic, Fancy Goods, 1st Call Windows, Mickeys Flowers, Tesco Stores, HP Source of design and Wiltshire Flag.