SIXTEEN-year-old Jenni Francis was crowned Worcester's new Carnival Queen despite a blunder by one of the judges.

The sell-out ceremony at Huntingdon Hall was brought to a standstill as the blonde "restaurant meeter-greeter" was pronounced third runner-up when the results were announced in the wrong order.

But minutes later the error was spotted and Jenni, of Boughton Street, in St John's, took her throne, joined by Amy Ryder and Gemma Pearson who took second and third places.

"It was a simple mistake by one of the judges and he's feeling pretty mortified this morning," said Carnival Queen contest organiser, Mike Dandey. "But he did an excellent job and the night was fantastic."

Overcome, Jenni, complete with tiara and bouquet, said she was happy to receive third place and panicked when the contest was stopped.

"I thought they had made a mistake in choosing me at all. When they said I had actually won, I wanted to burst into tears."

"I am ecstatic and can't wait for this year," said Jenni, who is a member of Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's Youth Section.

A sad Kirsty Evans, who handed over the title after two hours on the judging panel, said she felt like a completely different person after her year's reign.

"I have learnt so much and it will be strange not being the centre of attention," she said. "But it's been great to have been able to give something back."

Geoff Hunt from Carnival Queen sponsor Excel Automation, Sgt Tim Humber from the Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters, Tim Dorr from the Worcester Referees' Association and reporter Melanie Hall from the Worcester Evening News also judged the event.

Worcester Hospital Radio's Andy Dean compered the contest, joined by colleague Steve Hayward and musicians, Georgina and Damian.

Mike Dandey said he wanted to say a big thank you to all the super ladies who took part in last night's contest.

"Although they are disappointed that they didn't win, I hope they will consider entering next year's competition."