THIS year's carnival royalty has has been crowned.

Judges say they had a hard job choosing the Carnival Queen, Princess and attendants for this year's Bridport Carnival.

Ellie May Loveless will lead the team as Queen, while Abigail Sanderson is next in line as Princess. Millie Frampton and Faye Lodge have been chosen as this year's attendants.

A spokesman said all the girls who applied were 'enthusiastic and keen to support the carnival.'

Head judge, Brian Perrin, said it was good to have so many girls enter, although it made the their job 'much more difficult.'

He hopes this encourages the girls and their families to help or enter the activities organised by the committee in future years.

Mr Perrin said: "Young people are the lifeblood to future carnivals."

Vice chairman, James West, thanked all the girls and their families for entering and suggested the girls not successful this year enter next year. He also thanked the Conservative Club for the use of the venue and the Bridport News for sponsoring the event.

Started in 1971, Bridport Carnival has been a firm favourite on the town's calendar ever since and is said to be the town's biggest, free event.

This year's carnival procession is due to take place on Saturday, August 18, followed by the torchlight parade on Sunday, August 19. Carnival-goers will then be able to head down to West Bay to enjoy the traditional fireworks display while a bonfire is lit on the beach.

There will be lots to keep visitors entertained in the week leading up to the parade, with quizzes, bingo, skittles and darts events being held at various locations in the town.

A teddy bears picnic and family disco will keep the little ones happy, and carnival royalty will be officially crowned after the procession. Live music will be performed both evenings.

Organisers are hoping everyone will get involved this year - and there are many ways to do so.

Volunteers are needed to help co-ordinate the procession and float and walking entries are needed for the procession. Schools, clubs and individuals are encouraged to get involved and take part.

Each year, funds raised through Bridport Carnival are handed out to a range of good causes.

For more information and to get involved, contact Joyce Dunford on 07810 632658 or email joycedunford@yahoo.co.uk