Retiring Ilkley town crier received a special message from the Queen when he was commended by councillors for his work.

Chris Richards is hanging up his hat and bell at the end of this year, after 12 years of crying the news to passers-by and declaring public functions open in the town.

To thank him for his service, Ilkley parish council presented him with a community certificate of merit, and a framed letter from the Queen, sending her best wishes. The Council also presented him with a brass bell.

Ilkley Parish Council vice-chairman, Councillor Andrew Walbank, turned the tables on Mr Richards by reading an ode penned in honour of the crier.

The Council has now begun its search for a successor to Mr Richards.