BUDDING Carnival Queens and Princesses were treated to a mini photoshoot on Sunday when Wellington Carnival Committee held its Royalty Pageant

Carnival secretary Louise Brierley said: “We had 12 entrants this year, just a couple less than last year, but again the calibre of the entrants was phenomenal – the judges had such a hard job to choose just one Queen and two Princesses.

“The girls were amazing and they were so supportive to each other while they waited very patiently to be called for their interviews, which took place in front of an audience of more than 40 people.”

As part of the selection process, entrants were encouraged to find innovative ways of raising funds to help carnival support local groups and charities – this ranged from cake sales and collecting pennies, as well as obtaining sponsorship from their individual families and friends. The profit raised from the pageant will be given to the 2016 Carnival charities. UNWIN Photography sponsored the pageant and took photos of the entrants.

Terry Milton put on a film show of last year’s carnival and gave an insight into what is expected of the girls on carnival day itself, visiting residential homes, having their hair and make-up done, not forgetting the hundreds of photos they have to smile for. They were all reminded it is not just about carnival day, they are required to help with fundraising, presentations and are also expected to attend four other carnivals.

Carnival chairman Dave Rylatt said: “We wish we could fit all of the entrants on our newly renovated float – however, it’s just not possible. But all the pageant entrants will be invited to take part in our carnival – we will be putting on special transport to enable them to join in the spirit of what our carnival is intended, a community event. He said all the entrants would also be invited to a special civic event as well, as guests were visiting from France and Portugal this year.

Following the interviews entrants were treated to a buffet while they waited for the results to be announced. Wellington’s Mayor, Bob Bowrah, who was part of the judging panel, alongside Deputy Mayor Gary James, announced Wellington Carnival Queen 2016 as Melissa Knell, 16, who has just left Court Fields School.

The princesses were by Royalty co-ordinator Angie Filler as Jasmin Coombes, 13, and Jenna Faber, again both from Court Fields School.

The committee would like to thank everyone involved, especially those who sponsored and supported all the entrants.