IT'S one of the more unusual job shares.

Christchurch now has two town criers following the recent competition in Saxon Square.

Jonny Rayner and Adam Cushan both work full time so that they will split the role between them.

And the original costumes and other regalia belonging to former town crier, the late Keith Jackman are now back with the town council.

They had been in the hands of Hampshire Cultural Trust for safekeeping.

Christchurch Mayor, Sue Bungey, said: "It has taken many weeks to negotiate the return of these possessions to Christchurch.

"I am delighted to say that as of next week everything will be back in Christchurch and Jonny as town crier will be able to wear the costume once it has been altered and he will begin to be seen in and around Christchurch."

Those wishing to use the town council to announce events can contact Emma Cross, the Mayor’s Secretary who will holding and controlling the diary for both Criers.

Email address ecross@christchurch-tc,gov.uk.

Deputy town crier Adam Cushan will be announcing the start of the Jubilee weekend at the Old Town Hall in Christchurch High Street at 2 pm on Thursday 2 June and later that day at Mudeford Quay from 5pm.

Cllr Bungey added: "I am grateful to all the residents of Christchurch, the Hampshire Cultural Trust and Christchurch Town Council for supporting this initiative which it would seem is becoming very popular."

There were fears the town council could be forced to find around £3,000 in funding for a new outfit after the Christchurch Business Improvement District offered sponsorship of £500 in exchange for their branding being placed on the outfit in the form of a badge.

Councillors at a town council meeting last month asked why the Hampshire Cultural Trust was refusing to return the outfit.