ORGANISERS of a popular and long-running carnival say they are desperate to find a carnival queen and two princesses to represent the community.

The Mersea Carnival, due to take place on August 21, will include floats from various groups on the island but it is still touch and go whether the event will include a float for a carnival queen and princess after a lack of applicants.

Beryl Turner, who helps to organise the event, said she was disappointed that only two girls had come forward to take on the ceremonial roles.

She said: “The girls on the island seem a bit shy this year or maybe it is just not the in thing anymore.

“It is a shame because what they are doing is representing their community.

“We don’t make a big deal out of it Carnival organisers are looking for a queen, aged from 14 upwards and two princesses, aged from 10 to 14.

There is also room for a flower girl.

The girls will be given dresses to wear for the event and will get the chance to take part in other carnivals taking place in towns and villages throughout Essex.

Anyone interested are asked to come along to the Waldergraves Holiday Park at 6pm on Sunday.***APR25***