TRIBUTES have been paid to popular town crier Kevin Knapp who died after a battle with cancer.

Kevin, who had represented Sturminster Newton for more than 17 years, was a well-known figure in the community. He died aged 53 earlier this month.

North Dorset MP Simon Hoare said Kevin was "irreplaceable" as town crier and someone he considered to be "Mr Sturminster Newton."

"It is terribly sad news to hear," Mr Hoare said.

"I saw him at the cheese festival just the other week and he had not been long diagnosed.

"I always saw him as Mr Sturminster Newton and he saw himself as that as well.

"He was always the strongest advocate for the town."

Mr Hoare said Kevin had all the qualities needed to be a town crier, with him being very good with people and taking a pride in the town.

He added: "Kevin lived and breathed the role, it was something he was extremely proud of. He loved being involved in events and talking about what the town had to offer.

"I will remember him as a proper character, with a great sense of humour. Kevin had time for everybody."

Kevin, who was originally from Castle Cary, met his wife Melanie through his involvement with the carnival.

Sturminster Newton's town crier position evolved from the cheese festival in 1999, with Kevin being appointed to the ancient and honourable guild of town criers in 2002.

He represented the town nationally and won several awards. Recently this included the best dressed town crier at this year's Dorset County Show.

A statement from Sturminster Newton Town Council said: "He has been a familiar figure at Sturminster events, a well-known and loved character.

"Kevin was passionate about his role and the town and will be sorely missed by the Town Council and all that knew him."