Mr Booth, 76, who has been town crier for more than 26 years and was champion in 1988, 1989 and 1994, came fourth in the Loyal Company of Town Criers British Championships in Lancashire.

He said he was delighted with the result as he was up against 25 of the country's best criers, and joked it was down to his Scarborough roots.

"I missed out on third by less than half a point and I'm really pleased as it proves I've still got the voice for it after all these years.

"It must be the Scarborough air!" said Mr Booth, of North Marine Road.
In the competition, which was won by crier Paul Gough, from Warwickshire, Mr Booth was judged on the standard of his voice and dress and had to give two cries about Scarborough.

"I explained to people the two sandy bays, how we are overlooked by a Norman castle, our fishing industry and the fantastic Spa and encouraged them to visit the town for the first time."

He said his experience as a town crier could have been totally different were it not for some encouragement from celebrity friends.

His name was put forward for a competition in 1984, which he entered quite reluctantly, between the Grand Hotel and St Nicholas Hotel, and when he was announced the winner, said: "Thanks but I don't want to be a town crier and wear all that!"

"I spent the first six months avoiding people when I had my robes on and I remember my first duty at the Town Hall," said Mr Booth. "I left the house through the back door and walked down side alleys so as not to be seen by anyone.

"It wasn't until I did a couple of charity events with Ken Dodd and The Grumbleweeds that I began to smile and enjoy doing it."

Mr Booth said he nearly gave up the role after the death of his wife Wendy three years ago, but her advice was to continue doing the things he loved meant he carried on and he will be showing off his skills at a meeting in Darlington this week.

"She told me to carry on and enjoy my hobbies, and it was the best advice I've ever had," he said.

"There is a gathering in Darlington this week for the new town crier, who wants to meet others in the area, so I'll be going there and giving him some support."