He was just an ordinary chap from Huttons Ambo - a family man and a game consultant by profession.

But David Jackson's strong beliefs that ancient town traditions should never die have transformed him into a mini celebrity over night. The 62-year-old has won the coveted title of Malton Town Crier.

Following the resignation four months ago of town celebrity Roger Willis, a huge appeal was launched to find his replacement.

However, there was little response, and at one point it was thought that the age-old tradition would come to an end.

But at the last minute Mr Jackson came forward along with Philip Irving, 73, of Malton.

Both men came head to head on Saturday when they took part in a shouting competition in Malton market place. Despite the rain, locals flocked to watch the event outside the town's museum, and cheered the contestants' first taste at public speaking, or rather shouting.

"A new town crier is being chosen today. The town has had a crier since 1735 - I should like the tradition to continue. God save the Queen and the people of Malton and Norton," they both cried.

It was a close call, and the judges, Norton Mayor Coun David Berry and Malton Mayor David Lloyd-Williams, insisted on a "penalty shout-out".

However at the end of the day it was Mr Jackson's short speech on the weather that wowed the judges and won him the job.

"I'm absolutely delighted. I'm a firm believer that these sort of traditions should continue - I'm really looking forward to it," said Mr Jackson, who is married to Josephine and has two children, Paul and Claire.

Mr Willis, who had been the town crier since 1988, but had to resign due to health reasons, wished Mr Jackson well.

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