THE 2010 Chester World Town Crier Tournament is under way and will continue in the city until Saturday.

Up to 40 town criers will being trying to outdo each other, with most of the action taking place on “Centre Stage” outside the Town Hall.

With participants travelling from America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, as well as many other European countries, it has become an international event.

Among the participants, two who have travelled thousands of miles to take part are Judy Campbell, town crier for Echuca and Moama in Victoria, Australia, and Chris Whyman, town crier for Kingston, Ontario, in Canada.

Chris said: “It’s pretty fierce competition. I always say it’s a bit like a loud public speaking competition.”

Judy added: “We love Chester. It’s my third visit. I really like the history, the black and white timber buildings and the cobbled streets. I’m looking forward to trying the spa in the run-up to the final.”

The tournament still has two more rounds to take place before the final at the weekend, with events on Thursday and Friday .

The final is on Saturday, by Chester Town Hall, from 11am to 1pm.