SHOPPERS in Otley at the weekend were treated to the debut appearance of the town's new deputy bellman.

After months of searching and interviews, the town council has appointed 'Bomber' Wilson to deputise for Paddy Steval.

And on Saturday, Mr Wilson, known as 'Bomber', was unveiled in the town centre for the first time.

A town crier for three years, Bomber, 28(ish) is already the official bellman for Weeton, where he lives.

"I'm proud to be able to serve the good people of Otley as the deputy town bellman, especially as my hobbies include wearing tights and shouting," he said. Bomber, whose other job is driving, is a member of the Loyal Company of Town Criers, and has also appeared at North Rigton Gala as well as abroad.

"It's a lovely, lovely, job, but not for the shy or introverted. There's also a serious side to it though, and I'm not going to take it lightly," he added.

Mr Steval said: "Bomber is a local lad and a well known character, I'm sure he will do well."