TOWN criers from across the world turned out to compete in a competition in a North Yorkshire market town.

Helmsley’s first National Town Crier Competition, attracted 20 town crier entrants from across the world, who competed for the Magna Carta Trophy.

The overall winner was Ed Christopher, the town crier for Hamilton in Bermuda, who also won the Best Dressed Town Crier award.

Jim Stewart, from New Glasgow in Nova Scotia, took second place, and Christian Ashdown, of Haslemere in Surrey, was awarded third place.

The criers were judged according to the rules of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers and as well as undertaking a “Home Cry” about the town they represent, the competitors had to perform a cry about Helmsley’s strong link to the Magna Carta.

The event, which took place at Helmsley Walled Garden, was organised by the Helmsley in Business group and Helmsley’s own Town Crier David Hinde.

David said: “What a fantastic and successful day.

"I think it’s fair to say it’s been the Best Town Crier Competition for years.

“The walled garden proved to be a natural amphitheatre of sound and was just a stunning backdrop.

“It was a very close run and competitive event, both in the morning and the afternoon, as cry after cry boomed out and was heard to echo on the surrounding hills and walls.

“A huge thank you to our sponsors, without whom the day would not have been possible, and for the generosity of Helmsley in Business members who provided food and drink for the criers and their consorts.

"I’d also like to say a very big thank you to Jane Buckle from Bondgate Antiques, who has been instrumental in organising the competition, and to all of the Helmsley businesses who volunteered their time throughout the set up and event, and to the walled garden for being such a spectacular venue.”