Herman Finkers named greatest Twentenaar of all time

Herman Finkers has been named the greatest Twentenaar of all time after winning more than a quarter of nearly 8,000 votes in a poll run by Dutch newspaper Tubantia. A five-member jury also unanimously chose the 71-year-old comedian, whose work and identity are closely associated with the eastern Dutch region of Twente.

The organisers announced the result on Saturday evening. Tubantia editor-in-chief Daan Bonenkamp presented Finkers with a bronze sculpture of the Kroezeboom, an ancient tree that symbolises connection in Twente.

The poll began in late May and featured 54 nominees put forward by readers. Candidates had to have been born, raised or rooted in the region and to have had a significant impact on its people or the area.

Writer Willem Wilmink came second, followed by preacher and resistance fighter Leendert Overduin. Singer Ilse DeLange narrowly missed the top three.