The Canadian winner of Bermuda's sole town crier competition is on the Island preparing to reclaim his title.

Ten town criers from around the world will go head to head to determine who among them is the best and the loudest in a series of events planned for this week.

Held in commemoration of Bermuda's 400th anniversary, the competition will be hosted by Bermudian criers David Frith and Ed Christopher.

Daniel Richer dit La Flèche the only Native American crier has been a town crier for 28 years.

The Ottawa resident won the Island's first contest three years ago, and has returned for the second challenge.

"I usually do community promotions and events to promote tourism as town criers are ambassadors for our countries," said Mr. dit La Flèche, who has introduced such dignitaries as Queen Elizabeth, former president of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev and Lech Kaczynski, President of Poland.

"I have introduced all spectrum of people from [British band] Supertramp, to the Pope," he said. "I even do wedding proposals the last five were from women to men."

He said his message hit home even with the men proposed to: "At 110 decibels, when I cry, they listen."

Criers often dress elaborately. A tradition which dates to the 18th century sees many don a red and gold robe, white breeches, black boots and a tri-cornered hat.

Mr. dit La Flèche's style varies: "I usually dress in my Medieval French Corp., but I also wear my traditional Native American outfit."

The competition starts tomorrow at 12.30 p.m. in Somer's Garden in St. George's and continues on Thursday on the City Hall steps. Saturday, it returns to St. George's.

Mr. dit La Flèche, who is of the Abenaki Indian tribe, said he is hoping Bermudians of Native American descent will turn out and support him.

"I love Bermuda and I am looking forward to the competition," he said. "I look forward to meeting descendants of my people. I have already met up with a few but I am inviting them all out, in addition to all Canadians, to come and support me."