A town crier from Australia took home the crown at this year's World Town Crier Tournament in Chester.

The competition, which took place from September 22 to 26, saw 25 town criers from Australia, Canada, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, the USA, and England, compete for the coveted title of world's best.

With Chester's town crier tradition going back almost 500 years, the event marked the city's first time staging the competition since 2014.

Competition rounds were judged on vocal proficiency, confidence and bearing, content, and audience engagement.

'Krazy' Kevin Howarth, town crier for Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, near Brisbane, was crowned this year's winner.

"I wish my 93-year-old mum was here to see this," He said after winning the award. "It's a cliché, but I'm over the moon. I love the people and the camaraderie among the town criers – it has been a joy and Chester has been so welcoming.

"I don't drink but I'll be having a beer – or two – tonight."

Backed by £50,000 in funding from Airbnb's £1 million Best of British Fund, the tournament was organised by Marketing Cheshire.

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The week-long event was also organised in partnership with Chester Town Crier David Mitchell, who has delivered the Chester proclamation for nearly three decades.

Jamie Christon, Chair of Marketing Cheshire and CEO of Chester Zoo, said: "Chester has a habit of surprising people, and this week the city did exactly that - historic streets filled with colour, character and a bit of theatre, showing the world what makes this place so special.

"We've loved watching visitors soak up everything Chester has to offer, from our medieval Rows and riverside walks to the bars, restaurants and independent shops that give the city its character.

"This week has seen Chester at its best, with the world watching."