Oswestry’s town crier has admitted he is still enjoying the role despite the lockdown after announcing a special worldwide day on Monday.

Phil Brown has been a regular fixture at Oswestry events for the last two years but with the Covid-19-enforced break, he has not been able to join in.

But on Monday, he declared the International Town Crier’s Day at the Bailey head and says he is hoping to get back out more.

“I am very proud to be doing and I’m still enjoying the role – I’m loving it,” he said.

“Obviously because of the lockdown, it’s been tough. I belong to the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers and we’re all a bit concerned about going into crowded areas and shouting.

“It would be quite hard to town crier with a mask on.

“There were people shopping and whatever crowds there were listened – one lady took a video of me.

“She was very supportive and put it on social media.”

In a proclamation lasting around one minute, Mr Brown briefly explained the role’s history to an interested audience.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is International Town Crier’s day to commemorate the role of criers throughout history.

“To celebrate to the continuation of the tradition in the modern setting. In olden times when few people were literate and there was little access to printed media, town criers were an essential part of urban living.

“This event has been commemorated since 1997 and was founded by Scott Frazier, of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada. God bless you all who live in the wonderful town of Oswestry and God save the Queen.”