TRIBUTES have been paid to Callington Town Crier of 14 years Dennis Cook, who was known far and wide as a true character.

Dennis, who died two weeks ago, took over the role of town crier in 1999 and was very committed to his duties.

Callington portreeve Jeremy Gist said: 'Dennis thoroughly enjoyed being the town crier and would represent the town across the country in competitions, often presenting his host with bannerettes and books from Callington.

'He was extremely well known throughout the town and was a true character. His absence at future civic events will be missed.'

Tavistock Town Crier David Turner said he would remember Dennis Cook as 'a most flamboyant and colourful character'.

'He was a tremendously supportive mentor to more recently appointed criers; the depth of his knowledge about the craft, coupled with his unselfish willingness to offer guidance and assistance to all involved made him a marvellous ambassador for the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers. 

'For years, as editor of the Guild Newsletter — a position only recently relinquished — he gathered and disseminated information across the nation, constantly providing a much valued and popular service to his peers.

'His stalwart commitment to the Callington Town Crier competition, together with his diligence in promoting and maintaining it in the Crying Calendar, aptly proved his strength of purpose and his dedication to the people of his "patch", who obviously regarded him with great admiration and affection. He will be deeply missed, both as a staunch friend and respected colleague in the fraternity of town criers.'

Town crier for Calstock Hilary Fairhurst said Mr Cook had a very good rich voice for the role and he and his wife Jennie were well known and made many friends within the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers.

Mr Cook was also a member of the Wreckers Border Morris Dancers based at St Dominick.

Squire or chairman of the group Richard Akehurst said: 'He was a nice fellow and definitely a character. He used to do a bit of his town crying as well as dancing when we were at events which was always great fun. He is going to be missed.'

Mr Cook also raised money for charity and in 2007 had his 'magnificent' trademark beard shaved off (temporarily) for the Primrose Foundation's Breast Care Centre at Derriford Hospital.