The glories of a market town on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales are to be extolled throughout the realm.

The good news about living in Skipton is to be voiced by its first official Town Crier in almost 60 years.

And its virtues could not be better championed than from the lyrical larynx of top town crier Kevin Griffiths.

Kevin, 53, of Brindley Wharf, Skipton, keeps his voice in trim by singing in the choir, Craven Harmony.

And he has just been named the leading crier by the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers.

He beat both the World and European champions with his rendition of the official Skipton Cry a verse he wrote himself.

Kevin, who will be vying for the 2006 European title later this summer, will make his official grand appearance on the steps of Skipton Town Hall on Saturday, June 3, to announce the appointment of the new Mayor and his deputy.

And the following day, he will be out again in his green frock coat, to launch the first Skipton Festival of Transport.

On every first Saturday of the month he intends to take centre stage on the Town Hall steps to announce the times and dates of events within the coming month.

He will also attend other events like Skipton Gala, Remembrance Day and the Christmas lights switch on.

"I was town crier for Bude and Stratton for two-and-a-half years until last October when we came back to Skipton," said Kevin.

"I was born here and I am back to my roots it is much nicer shouting for a place where you have close ties."

He keeps his voice in trim by singing in the choir and he also puts his success down to voice training.

"Loudness comes into it of course, but other things are important. The voice must be sustained throughout the cry and you must have good diction and speak clearly," he said.

Town crying was not confined to men with booming voices - women were among the best exponents of the art.

"Women have less volume, but their voices are clearer. I have been thrashed by women in competitions," he added.

Town Councillor Polly English said: "Kevin is brilliant for Skipton, getting the town's name and attractions across to a national audience."

e-mail:clive.white@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

THE SKIPTON CRY

Skipton North Yorkshire, Gateway to the Dales,

A thousand years of settlement adorning the vales.

A medieval castle standing proud so grand,

Preserved in all its glory, best throughout the land.

Colourful bustling market stalls, bargains there galore,

Shops for all to browse, who could ask for more?

Beautiful surroundings scenic boating trips,

Yorkshire's finest restaurant for real fish and chips.

Skipton North Yorkshire, welcome awaits you all,

Museums, galleries, taverns, parks for you to stroll.

Something for everyone, be they young and old,

Visit once, you'll come back as memories unfold.

God save the Queen