PREPARATIONS are already underway for this year's Ringwood Carnival.

Although the event is not until September, Ringwood Carnival queen Katherine Douglas has already been performing one of her first official duties of her 'royal' year.

The 16-year-old began a busy few weeks by visiting the offices of carnival sponsor, Ellis Jones Solicitors, in Southampton Road.

Katherine, who was accompanied by her attendants Georgia D’Cruze and Alana Morris, was welcomed by partner Matthew Clake.

"I'm very excited and looking forward to the carnival. I’ve wanted to be Carnival Queen for years," said Katherine who enjoys musical theatre and is a keen tennis player.

This year's carnival takes place on Saturday September 15. There will be free events on The Bickerley to include a fun fair, trade stands, the ‘Village Green’ with craft, charity and community stalls and a grand firework display evening finale.

Michael Lingam-Willgoss, president of Ringwood Carnival, said it was on course to be another great community event.

"Ringwood Carnival really brings people together. It's a fantastic event which is not only great fun but also raises thousands of pounds for charity. We seem to go from strength to strength," he added.

The first Ringwood Carnival was held in 1928 with the event held every year since 1950.

Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, said: “Ringwood Carnival is one of the area’s best-loved community events and we’re very pleased to play our part in its continuing success.”