POOLE Carnival has secured the services of a world-class celebrity judge for its gala queen contest.

Crowned Miss World in 1964, Poole girl Ann Sidney has agreed to join the judges to pick the carnival queen and princess, to the delight of organisers.

Richard Wilson, of the carnival committee, said it was “fantastic” news but appealed for more young people to come forward to compete for the honour of being part of the colourful parade.

“We are a bit puzzled as to the lack of applicants,” he said.

“They will represent Poole not just at our carnival but we try and get involved in as many others in Dorset as we can.

“It’s putting Poole in the limelight and on the map,” he added.

The exciting Gala Night, when the youngsters will be chosen, will take place at the Thistle Hotel on Poole Quay on Saturday, March 21.

For the princess role applicants need to be aged 12 to 16 years and for the queen, 16 to 20 years.

“We want more people to come forward,” said Richard.

The gala night includes a jazz band, cabaret, auction and raffle and a finger buffet – tickets cost £15.

The carnival takes place on Sunday, August 2, and will process along Ashley Road and Alder Road to Branksome Rec for a family fun day.

Organisers are still looking for groups to take part in the carnival procession; there are only about 10 stalls left on the site to be taken up and there will be live entertainment on a new stage.

Among the other five judges will be Poole Mayor, Cllr Peter Adams, and Sheriff Jo Clements.

There is more information on the poolecarnival.info website and any girls wanting to apply can contact Richard Wilson on 07728 676414 or Trevor Hunter on 07803 895606.