The Romford town crier who announced the birth of the royal baby has received a letter of thanks from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Tony Appleton took it upon himself to break the news of the much-anticipated arrival to crowds outside St Mary’s Hospital on July 22.

Afterwards, he wrote to William and Kate saying he hoped they hadn’t minded him gate-crashing the proceedings, and congratulating them on the birth of their son.

He has now received a reply on behalf of the new parents, from the Duchess of Cambridge’s private secretary, thanking him for his services.

The letter said: “It was kind of you to write and the Duke and Duchess would have me send you their warmest thanks and best wishes.”

Tony, 76, said: “I’m so proud; this was the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge, who is third in line to the throne, was born at 4.24pm, weight 8lb 6oz. Just over four hours later, Tony told crowds outside the Lindo Wing: “Oyez, Oyez! We welcome a future king. The first born of their royal highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. May he be long-lived, happy and glorious and one day reign over us. God save the Queen.”

The letter is now framed in pride of place in the hallway of the Chelmsford care home Tony runs.

He said: “The residents are very excited. They didn’t know I was going to make the announcement until they saw me on television, so it was a bit of a surprise for them!”

After entertaining crowds during the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding last year, Tony now considers himself the royal town crier.

He became the first town crier of Romford 12 years ago, and said he plans to take a similar role in any future royal births.