Pebsham crowns new Princess

PEBSHAM has a new Princess. She and her Deputy were chosen at a selection competition on Saturday afternoon.

The major task of their year of office will be to represent Pebsham at next month's town Carnival when they will ride in the procession on their own float.

Contestants paraded around the hall at Pebsham Community Centre before lining up in front of the judges: Vera Blackwell, Joyce Steptoe, Ken Hawnes, Ben Ives and Mick Luck, who compered the event.

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Watched by outgoing Princess Chloe Machin-McSweeney and her Deputy, Nicole Bicar, the contestants then faced questioning by each of the judges.

Tension among the line-up increased as the judges withdrew to consider their decision.

On their return, Mick Luck thanked all those who took part. He had a special word for those who were unsuccessful: "Please enter again next year."

To applause, he announced that Pebsham's new Princess is nine year-old Shannon Beeching. Shannon (above right), of Seabourne Road, attends Pebsham School.

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Her deputy is Naomi Bicar. Naomi (above left), of Kinver Lane, is seven - and takes over from big sister Nicole, eight.

After a ceremony in which the sashes, tiaras and capes of office were exchanged, the newcomers went off for a photocall in the park behind the community centre.

It was their first official function.