ROYAL Wootton Bassett’s town crier had plenty to shout about last weekend, as town criers from across England and Wales gathered for a unique event.

Owen Collier visited the Pembrokeshire town of Newport, as it hosted Wales’ first ever celebration of town criers on Saturday.

The day attracted a procession of colourful characters in fine voice as town criers and their consorts were joined by mayors, councillors, and other dignitaries for a parade through the streets and local market.

They were cheered on by crowds of spectators as they assembled for the ‘Big Shout’ in the town’s gardens.

Town criers travelled hundreds of miles from Royal Wootten Bassett, Llandovery, Ilfracombe, Cheltenham Spa, Frome, Crewkerne and Seaton, Trowbridge, Montgomery, Pembroke, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest to take part in the celebration.

Newport mayor Andrew Benham said: “Historically the town crier was the original newsman. He was protected by law, and ‘do not shoot the messenger’ was an order.”

He added: “This event is a real treat and a rewarding experience. It’s all gone very well.”

Criers introduced their towns during the first shout, followed by a second shout proclaiming: “Newport, the jewel in the crown of Pembrokeshire.”