A NEWLY-CROWNED queen will lead her historic town's carnival this year.

Meghan Taylor was chosen as the Dalton Carnival Queen at a judging event earlier this month.

The 12-year-old spoke of her pride at representing her town.

She said: “It feels really exciting.

“It's such a good honour to be able to represent my town and I can't wait for it.

“I wanted to be queen because I am proud to be living in such a well-loved and historic town.”

The Dowdales School pupil has been going to the carnival for a number of years.

She said: “I think the carnival is always really good and every year there's something exciting going on.

“I go every year and I always look forward to it.”

This year's carnival will take place on Saturday June 10 with a theme of flags and bunting.

The young royal will take on civic duties at the carnival, as well as representing the youth of Dalton at other events throughout the year.

Neil McDougall, Dalton Carnival's chairman, said: "This is a fabulous opportunity to be involved with a local community cause, supporting an important part of our heritage and in doing so taking part in lots of activities that others not in their position would ever get the chance to.

"We have had a great turnout over the last few years and hopefully the weather will be kind to us as we are looking forward to another great Dalton Carnival this year."

Meghan was chosen after a judging event involving the mayor of Dalton Nick Perie and Dalton north councillor Ann Thurlow.

Meghan, who enjoys trampolining and gymnastics in her spare time, has lived in Dalton all her life.

Dalton Carnival royal co-ordinator Tracy Trelore thanked the candidates in the competition, as well as the councillors for their assistance in the final decision.

She said: “Thank you to Nick and Ann for their help and the carnival committee hope that Meghan has a fantastic year as Queen.”

The committee also selected two carnival princesses in Caitlin Pascoe, eight, and Katie High, nine.

Both girls attend George Romney School.