TOPSHAM has appointed not just one, but two new town criers.

The duties of the town crier include publicising the events that happen throughout the town all year round.

Keith Smith, 65, has been appointed as the new town crier with Ben Turner, 26, as his deputy.

The two men are replacing Jon Reed, who is stepping down after 10 years.

The chairman of Topsham Community Association, Margaret Butt, said: "We advertised a competition for a new town crier in May, and only Keith and Ben applied.

"We felt they were both so good for the job that we decided to have them both.

"They have both had their uniforms made to measure — Ben's took a lot of material because he is so tall.

"And we ordered their hats from a special civic robes maker based in Bristol — which an anonymous donor has kindly paid for.

"I know they'll represent the needs of the community very well, so we're very fortunate to have both of them as our town criers.

"They will be available throughout the year to enrich local events by making them more colourful and interesting."