THE search is on to find this year’s Knutsford Royal May Day queen.

The pageant has been moved from the first Saturday in May for the first time in its history so it doesn’t clash with the coronation.

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, May 13 and the queen will be crowned on the showground after a colourful procession meanders through the town.

Any girl aged 11, 12 or 13 on Friday, February 1 who lives in Knutsford, is eligible to enter.

Knutsford Guardian: May queen Lily-May Newall and her ladies in waitingMay queen Lily-May Newall and her ladies in waiting (Image: Newsquest)

This year’s queen will be chosen at a selection evening on Thursday, February 2 at 7pm in St John’s Church.

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Festival secretary Eileen Podmore, who has been involved in the event for 46 years, said: “We are looking for a girl who is confident and prepared to speak in public.

"We hope as many girls as possible enter.

“We would like the queen to attend other events and festivals throughout the year.”

Knutsford Guardian: Cheshire Wheelmen ride antique bikes through the quaint streetsCheshire Wheelmen ride antique bikes through the quaint streets (Image: Newsquest)

Girls hoping to be the queen must complete an application form and return it by January 27.

Details are on the Knutsford Royal May Day facebook page.

Candidates are being asked to say why they think they should be chosen.

Ladies of the court and maids of honour will also be selected on the same night.

Maids of honour must be aged eight or nine on February 1, 2013 and also live in Knutsford.

Thousands of spectators lined the streets last year when the festival was hailed the ‘best ever’.

Knutsford Guardian: Thousands of spectators lined the streets to welcome Royal May Day's return last yearThousands of spectators lined the streets to welcome Royal May Day's return last year (Image: Newsquest)

Joy and laughter filled the town as the pageant returned for the first time in two years following the pandemic.

“There was a real air of excitement I’ve not felt for years,” said Eileen.

“It was absolutely packed. There was a fantastic atmosphere, it was the best ever.”

More than 600 children take part in the procession, dressing up in colourful costumes.

Knutsford Guardian: More than 600 children in colourful costumes parade through the streetsMore than 600 children in colourful costumes parade through the streets (Image: Newsquest)

The selection of characters for this year’s parade will take place on Saturday, March 4, from 12 noon to 2pm at St John’s Church.

Any individuals, families or businesses wishing to offer help and support can email Eileen ee.podmore@ntlworld.com or Knutsford Royal May Day on Facebook.