OYEZ! Oyez! Eastleigh is the friendliest town in the south of England.

That was the accolade handed out by town crier Andy "Lancelot" Latham when he visited the town in his official capacity.

Andy, pictured, had been hired to announce the re-launch of the newly refurbished Litten Tree pub in Eastleigh High Street.

He was so delighted with the friendly welcome he received in the town that he just had to tell someone.

The 54-year-old from Rugby beat a path to the Daily Echo office to spread the word.

He said: "It's the best community spirit I've seen since working up north during the miners' strike."

Andy said he was stunned by how helpful people were when giving directions.

"The attitude of people in the town is enough to make you consider moving here. The streets are clean, the traffic wardens are friendly and the people are amazing."