17/02/2015

Town Crier Resigns Over Fake Military History

A town crier has resigned from his position in six towns after being exposed as lying about a military career.

Anthony Church claimed to have been a "regimental sergeant major" and appeared wearing a Falklands medal.

The 63-year-old admitted that he had lied about his military background after allegations began to spread on the internet on Sunday.

Speaking to BBC Radio Oxford, Mr Church, said: "When I became town crier, when people questioned me about my background I stupidly told them I am an ex-serviceman... that is absolutely not true. I have never served in the military."

Mr Church added that he had bought the medals he wore, with the exception of a British Empire Medal, which had belonged to his father, an RAF pilot.

Mr Church, whose voice could reach 118 decibels, resigned as town crier in Oxford, Wallingford, Chipping Norton, Banbury, Daventry and Thame.

(MH/CD)

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