Carnival royalty selected in fun-filled community day

This year’s carnival royalty has been selected at an annual fun-filled event that brought the community together for carnival celebrations – and plenty of cake.

Every year, the carnival committee runs a special Royalty Selection event ahead of the summer carnival. The chosen royalty then represent the town at community and carnival-related events.

This year’s selection event was held at the Rachel Fowler Centre on Sunday, 16th March. Alongside the royalty selection, there was the inaugural Carnival Cake Off competition and a Cuddle Parade.

The new royal family are: Queen Debbie Holman, aged 41; Princess Evalynne Phipps, aged 11; Butterfly Princess Bella-Rose Raikes, aged 9; Fairy Princess Bonnie Phipps, aged 5; Prince Guy Newman, aged 6.

Entrants competed by showcasing their cuddly toys in categories such as Vintage, Most Like Its Owner, Cuddliest Toy, Most Magical Toy and Home-Made.

The celebrations were rounded off with plenty of cake, as budding bakers entered their creations into the following categories: Chocolate Heaven, Victoria Sponge, Biscuits, Decorated Cupcakes and Scones.

“We awarded first, second, and third place in each category,” explained a member of the carnival team, Beth Dark. “We also had a Star Baker award for the most points overall, and the winners of each category received a rosette. The overall Star Baker also received a Star Baker apron.”

Outgoing royalty—Queen Amy, Princess Charlie, Butterfly Princess Izzy, Fairy Princess Tilly, and Prince Austin—along with twice-crowned Princess Abbie from a previous selection, judged the Cuddle Parade and cake categories.

Beth added, “A super day was had by all, and our fabulous Linda De Santiz was on hand to take lots of photos, so we would like to thank her too.

“We want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who supported this event by entering the three different competitions and for the lovely feedback we have received.”

Pictured: Carnival Royalty l-r, back: Princess Evalynne Phipps; Queen Debbie Holman; Butterfly Princess Bella-Rose Raikes; front Fairy Princess Bonnie Phipps; Prince Guy Newman.