Town criers from across the county created quite a stir as they gathered in Dorchester for a county-wide competition. 


The 29th annual Dorset Town Criers competition saw the county's loudest voices descend on Dorchester on Saturday to compete for the Stanley Mansbridge Perpetual Trophy.


Amused shoppers stood and watched as nine town criers bellowed their best cry in the centre of Brewery Square. 


They were Melvin Gudger, of Pamphill and Shapwick, Liz Rawlings, of Blandford, John Collingwood, of Bridport, Andrew Fleming, of Swanage, David Craner, of Beaminster, Ian Mitchell, of West Moors, Kevin Knapp, of Sturminster Newton, Stuart Cave, of Portland and Chris Brown, of Winbourne. 


The winner, John Collingwood, was chosen by a panel of three judges, meaning the contest will move to Bridport next year. 


In second place, came Chris Brown, and Andrew Fleming took third place.
The previous holder of the silver salver Alistair Chisholm, Dorchester's town crier, hosted the event in his home town and therefore could not take part in the contest.


The arrangement ensures the trophy moves around the county on a regular basis.


Alastair said: "It was all a bit of fun and it was a jolly good day. It was amazing the distance you could hear the cries. John Collingwood won it and it was a very good cry.


"Now we're looking forward to next year's contest, which of course is the 30th one so it's a big one."


The competition, backed by Dorchester BID, the town council and Brewery Square, also held a category for the Best Dressed, which was won by Melvin Grudger, and Best Cry Content, which was won by Andrew Fleming.


A member of the public scooped £50 for their on-the-spot cry. 


Alistair said: "His 'Oyez' were in a class of their own."


Host of the event Alistair is not just a county champion but was also recently crowned national champion at a competition in Hastings.


It was the ninth time he had claimed the title and he is looking for a record tenth victory next year.