WESTBURY Town Crier Sean Price will be hanging up his hat and ringing the town’s bell for the last time next month as he is set to retire after 20 years service.

The 48-year-old has held the position since August 1995 after being put forward by his mum, making him the youngest town crier in the UK at the time and Westbury’s first in 22 years.

But the father-of-four has decided to call an end to his time as crier and will be attending his last function in Westbury on June 19.

He said: “I’m really sad to be retiring because I’ve had so much enjoyment and pleasure doing the job which has been a privilege and I’m really proud of my time as town crier.

“I think now is just the right time and I think there is probably someone else who wants to take the job to the next level as it were.

“Becoming town crier transformed my own life though, before I took up the position I was quite shy, which no one ever believes.”

Mr Price, of Shoreland Close, Westbury, initially planned to resign after six months as he had to wear a hired Captain Hook costume.

However, after approaching councillors John Annetts and Terry Clements, money was raised for Mr Price to wear a custom outfit.

Since then he has gone on to win several competitions, including titles at South Gloucestershire in 1997; at Mells Daffodil Festival in 1999 and 2000; and Wootton Bassett in 2007.

“When I started I definitely didn’t think I would stay in the job as long as I have,” Mr Price added.

“There have been lots of good moments that I have enjoyed but the most enjoyable probably has to be the Christmas lights celebration when everyone in the town comes out, that has to be highlight for me.

“The most emotional is the Remembrance Day parade where I lead the procession through the streets and is a very proud moment for me while we remember those who gave up their lives.

"Without doubt though the most nervous I have ever been was the first function which was at Matravers School, I was shaking so much and I couldn’t believe that I actually did it.”

Westbury town clerk Keith Harvey said: “Sean has attended many functions over this period on behalf of Westbury Town Council and has also brightened up many functions for local charities and organisations.

“The town council would like to thank Sean for his service over this period in which he has always been enthusiastic at all the events he has participated.”

Anyone wishing to apply for the position of Town Crier should contact Westbury Town Council on 01373 822232 or email info@westburytowncouncil.gov.uk