A town crier who twice quit the post in protest over funding is to don her distinctive uniform for a third time next week.

Nancy Buckle stepped down from the job in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, last year because she felt unable to do justice on the finances available.

But only a short time later people power forced her to take up the handbell again.

But Miss Buckle, who does not have a car, found it difficult to take up some engagements and without the prospect of more funding stepped down again.

The 57-year-old local historian and former nursing sister admitted to missing the job.

So when the job was advertised again recently under new terms she was one of the applicants - and on her past record regained the post.

The job is now being run by Knaresborough Town Council and the Chamber of Trade and Nancy hopes to travel further afield telling people about the beauties of the market town.

Since handing in her distinctive uniform and tricorn hat Miss Buckle has been constantly asked to return.

"I missed it so much because I love meeting people - whether it was welcoming tourists to the town as they got off the coaches, telling people about our fascinating history or dropping into a local shop or cafe for a chat," she said.

Her first engagement will be on Wednesday at Market Cross.