Shrewsbury town crier Martin Wood shortlisted for national award
After nearly three decades spent shouting the news to the good citizens of Shrewsbury, town crier Martin Wood has found himself in the running for a national award.
He is one of 10 nominees from across the country to be nominated as a Tourism Superstar by Visit England.
Mr Wood, who at 7ft 2in towers above the competition, said he will find out on March 29 if he has been successful.
"Shropshire Tourism nominated me for the award last year but it never went anywhere," he said. "So to find out I've been shortlisted is fantastic.
"I've lived in Shrewsbury all my life and I feel very proud to be in the running for the award."
The Tourism Superstar award recognises the most dedicated people in the tourism industry. Martin, a town crier for 28 years, is also being recognised for the hundreds of tours of Shrewsbury he has given over the years.
He believes there is always more to learn. "If someone says they know everything about Shrewsbury they're lying," he said. "There's always more to find out which is fascinating."
Alongside guided tours, Martin has also stood in as a body double for Hagrid in the Harry Potter films and for the late Edward Woodward filming A Christmas Carol in Shrewsbury in 1984.
Simon McCloy, chief executive of Shropshire Tourism, believes his nomination is well deserved.
Mr McCloy said: "To say Martin is a larger-than-life character is absolutely true. We would encourage everyone to get behind him and show their support."
To take part in the online vote go to www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/travel-awards-daily-mirror-visitengland-3029748
