CALNE girls took to the stage to compete for the coveted title of carnival princess and the privilege of leading the main procession through the town centre.

Girls aged between four and six competed in the 'butterfly princess competition', while girls between seven and 11 contested the crown of carnival princesses.

Each competitor was introduced to the audience at the town hall and invited to take their place on the stage where they were asked their likes, dislikes and why they wished to become the princess.

The girls returned to their families and there were refreshments and music while the judging took place. During the refreshments carnival organiser Jill Martin met the contestants for an informal 'getting to know you chat.'

Katie Lewis, five, who with four-year-old Abbie Neale was elected this year's butterfly princess by the judges, said: "I am polite and well-behaved. I have a smile that will brighten up any cloudy day."

Mikaela Summers, 10, who was voted carnival princess, said: "I would like to lead the carnival through the town and help raise money for local charities."

Carnival organiser Jill Martin said the qualities required to be a princess were personality and charm and that the final decision was a difficult one.

She said: "Every contestant is a winner and we should all be very proud of our young."