THIS is the final call for girls wishing to become this year’s Knutsford Royal May Day queen.

The closing date for entries is this evening, Friday January 27.

The 2023 pageant has been moved from the first Saturday in May for the first time in history so it doesn’t clash with the coronation.

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, May 13.

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

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

Festival secretary Eileen Podmore said: “All the candidates will be asked a question on the night.

“Which was the favourite character you have played in any past May Days and why?

“We are looking for a girl who is confident and prepared to speak in public and attend other events and festivals throughout the year.”

Candidates will also be asked why they think they should be chosen.

Girls wishing to be crowned must complete an application form on Knutsford Royal May Day’s Facebook page and return it by this evening, Friday.

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

Maids of honour must be aged eight or nine on February 1, 2023, and also live in Knutsford.

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

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.

For more details email Eileen at ee.podmore@ntlworld.com or visit Knutsford Royal May Day on Facebook.