BELLOWING announcers from across the country will flock to Alcester for the annual Heart of England Town Criers’ competition.

The traditional Easter event, on Saturday, April 15, has been held in the town for more than 40 years.

Hundreds are expected to attend the event which sees the criers walking down High Street before the contest begins at the historic Malt Mill Lane gardens at about 1.15pm.

The criers are tasked with booming about their home town with clarity, volume and intonation being assessed by judges. 

Town criers date back to Medieval England when they were the main way to break news to a population that was largely illiterate.

The event is organised by the Alcester Town Crier David Parks and will be judged by High Bailiff Ian Whitehead and Low Bailiff Steven Brown and Alcester Mayor Chris Brannigan.

Festivities start at the Town Hall at 12.45pm.