A KNUTSFORD schoolgirl is ‘over the moon’ to be selected as this year’s Royal May Day queen.

Orla Bolton has taken part in the annual historic pageant since she was five.

The 12-year-old has always longed to wear the crown.

Knutsford Guardian: Orla Bolton made her debut in Knutsford Royal May Day as a tulip when she was fiveOrla Bolton made her debut in Knutsford Royal May Day as a tulip when she was five (Image: Sarah Bolton)

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Proud mum Sarah said: “Orla is over the moon and really honoured to be chosen.

“She has always looked up to the queen and wondered if it could ever be her.”

The Knutsford Academy pupil made her debut as a tulip in 2017 and has been in the colourful procession as a sheep, Betty Blue and court lady.

Knutsford Guardian: Orla Bolton was a court lady last yearOrla Bolton was a court lady last year (Image: Sarah Bolton)

Hailed as the biggest day in the town’s calendar, around 600 children parade through the streets as various characters, watched by thousands of spectators.

Orla loves performing ballet and contemporary dance.

In January, she danced in Swan Lake at the Memorial Hall in Northwich as a member of Fushsia School of Dance.

Knutsford Guardian: Orla Bolton is this year's new May queen and Jack Pearce has been selected as crown bearerOrla Bolton is this year's new May queen and Jack Pearce has been selected as crown bearer (Image: Knutsford Photographic Society)

In panto, she was a milkmaid in Little Red Riding Hood at Knutsford Little Theatre.

Orla is also a member of the 5th Hunter Scouts.

Sarah said: “She just loves being part of the community, connecting with people.

“She is a very creative person. Art is her favourite subject.

“She is already looking at fabrics, planning her dress.."

Orla was one of 11 girls who took part in a new interview process, designed to make it ‘more gentle, informal and inclusive’.

Candidates were able to chat to a selection team of eight committee members and three independent people.

Eileen Podmore, secretary of Knutsford Royal May Day committee, said: “It went really well, there was a very relaxed atmosphere.

“All the girls were a credit to themselves.”

This year’s celebration on Saturday, May 4, will look distinctly different, thanks to generous donations.

Eileen said: “We have tried to make things look fresh and new.

“We will have lots of new costumes which will make a big difference.”

Schoolboy Jack Pearce is this year’s crown bearer.

The 13-year-old Knutsford Academy pupil has been in the parade since he was five.

Knutsford Guardian: Jack made his debut as a Beefeater in 2016Jack made his debut as a Beefeater in 2016 (Image: Angela Pearce)

It’s been a family affair as twin sister Holly and brother Sam, now 16, followed in their dad David’s footsteps.

Knutsford Guardian: Jack made his debut as a Beefeater in 2016, with brother Sam as a foot guard and twin sister Holly as a rosebudJack made his debut as a Beefeater in 2016, with brother Sam as a foot guard and twin sister Holly as a rosebud (Image: Angela Pearce)

Mum Angela said: “David was a Cranford gentleman years ago.

“It’s a wonderful family tradition.

Knutsford Guardian: Jack was a sceptre bearer last yearJack was a sceptre bearer last year (Image: Angela Pearce)

“It’s one of those days we love every year.

“Jack is really honoured to be involved.

Knutsford Guardian: Jack was royal falconer in 2022Jack was royal falconer in 2022 (Image: Angela Pearce)

“He said he is quite excited but it will also be nerve-wracking carrying the crown.”

Jack plays football for Egerton Football Club and enjoys reading and cycling.

In 2016, he started his court roles as a Beefeater, alongside sister Holly as a rosebud and brother Sam as a footguard.