A competition for a new town crier will take place in Christchurch this weekend.

The town council will hold the contest to fill the position in Saxon Square on Saturday.

The Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Sue Bungey said: “It has long been a hope of mine that during my Mayoral year I could reinstate the position of Town Crier to our ancient town. 

"This would be  a voluntary post and would not incur any cost to the council or its residents. 

"Our last Town Crier was Keith Jackman, who for many years held this prestigious post representing the people and town of Christchurch.  I am therefore proposing to hold a competition on Saturday February 12 in Saxon Square at 12 noon.

"Candidates can just turned up, meeting under the arches of the old Town Hall in the High Street to put their names forward in good time before 12 noon, to the panel of judges, or they can contact the Mayor’s Secretary, Emma Cross on ecross@christchurch-tc.gov.uk or telephone 01202 022034 giving their details.

"Candidates will each be asked to read (shout) a pre-printed cry.”