Town criers from across the UK visit Lichfield for competition

Lichfield has played host to town criers from across the country for a national competition.

Twelve visitors rang their bells and showcased their colourful costumes on Saturday (July 5).

The competition took place at Speakers’ Corner where the criers were challenged to give two performances, the first being a cry about their home town and the second on the theme of the Great War.

A spokesperson said: “At 84 Cyril Richardson, Bell Man for Great Barr, was the oldest entrant and Martin Wood from Shrewsbury at 7’ 2” is the tallest town crier in the world.

“After much deliberation the judges awarded the 2014 trophy to Peter Taunton from Stafford, with second prize to Martin Wood and third to Adrian Holmes of Sandwell.”