He is a well known character whose booming cry and bell-ringing has been heard throughout the streets of Norwich for a quarter of a century.

And yesterday a special civic reception was held to celebrate David Bullock's 25 years as the official city crier.

Mr Bullock, a 77-year-old retired policeman, first played the role of a town crier in 1980 at a Dickensian evening in Gorleston. He started as a city crier in Norwich in 1984 for the city's tourist association, and was made the official city crier in 1985.

Among his many duties, he is involved in Lord Mayor-making and freedom of the city ceremonies, and leading the Lord Mayor's pageant.

Mr Bullock, who lives in Gorleston, said; 'I have so many wonderful memories, and I have been to the world, European and British town crier championships where I have had moderate success.

'I have always treated these occasions from an ambassadorial role, and Norwich is always at the forefront of them.

'Norwich has been good to me. I enjoy my role so much and I love meeting the many wonderful people.

'I have had a marvellous 25 years – long may it continue.'

Lord mayors and sheriffs past and present gathered to congratulate Mr Bullock, who is married to Irene and has two children and two grandchildren, at the event at City Hall yesterday, where he was presented with a long service certificate from the city council, honorary membership to the City of Norwich Civic Association, a special certificate from the Norfolk World Family, and a gift from the Norfolk and Norwich Koblenz Friendship Association.

Brenda Arthur, deputy leader of Norwich City Council, said Mr Bullock was the longest serving crier in the history of the city, a well known and respected figure in the city, and a great ambassador for Norwich.

She said by taking part in 69 town crier competitions he has also taken the name of Norwich across the world to places including Belgium, South Africa, America, Canada and New Zealand.

He has won 11 first and 14 second places for best crier, and seven first and one second place for being best the dressed. In 2001 he was runner up in the competition to be the best town crier in the world.

Derek James, the Sheriff of Norwich, said: 'It is wonderful to honour the man regarded as the voice of Norwich. He is a great character and he represents the city so well.'

Tom Dylan, the Lord Mayor of Norwich, said it was great how Mr Bullock helped to keep the old traditions of the city alive.

'It is great we have these traditions because people really value them, and they help to link us to the past,' he said.

Do you know someone celebrating a landmark anniversary? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk