A LARGE crowd attended the Launceston Carnival and Fairy Queen choosing ceremony at the White Hart Hotel recently.

The evening was hailed as a great success by the carnival committee and was enjoyed by everyone who attended.

The competition was compered by Radio Cornwall's Michael Taylor and judged by committee members Mrs Jenny Barriball, Mr Frankie Johnson and Mrs Jo Metherell.

The choosing of the Fairy Queen kicked off the evening, with nine contestants being presented to the audience and judges, whilst being interviewed by Mr Taylor.

It proved difficult for the judges to make a final decision, and was decided that two attendants would be included in the category.

The final nod went to five-year-old, Tegan Wade, who completely captivated the audience and judges. She will be attended by seven-year-old, Emily Smith, and ten-year-old, Kirsty Lea.

The judges found it equally difficult to choose the Carnival Queen from the five competition entrants. Some strong deliberating was done before they decided upon honouring 11-year-old, Jordan Ellacott, with the role.

Both Tegan and Jordan were presented with tiaras, sashes, trophies and dress allowances.

The Fairy Queen trophy was presented by Cornish and Devon Post General Manager, Judy Ward, who agreed the night had been a good one. She said: "There was a great turnout and everyone provided a lot of support for the girls. There didn't appear to be an empty seat and everybody had a wonderful night." The Cornish and Devon Post is sponsoring the trophy this year.

The Carnival Queen trophy was presented by Mr Peter Grout, Chairman of Launceston Round Table, who are sponsoring the trophy this year, whilst both the Fairy and Carnival Queens were crowned by Derek and Enis Broad of Homeleigh Garden Centre — the event's main sponsors.

Lisa Ford, said: "We were delighted by the response for the competition and the evening itself. There is a real buzz around that the carnival is back.

"Tonight's event is the first step towards carnival day on October 9, and we are really pleased with how things are shaping up."

Entry forms are now available for carnival day from any of the committee members and will be available online and in shops shortly.

A carnival spokesperson said: "The carnival committee wish to thank all of the contestants and members of the public who attended, for giving the event a warm atmosphere and helping make the night a success.

"The committee also express their thanks to the excellent compere and judges, all of the sponsors and the White Hart Hotel for their hospitality."

For carnival day information or entry forms, contact Dave Gordon (chairman) on 01566 774706, Jackie Parsons (SEC) on 01566 776890 or Lisa Ford (publicity) on 07951 226792.