CARNIVAL royalty has been chosen ahead of this year's event.

Evesham Ladies Circle and members of Evesham Round Table have chosen this year's carnival queen and attendees and for the first year ever they now have a carnival king, ahead of the event on Saturday June 30.

Carnival king Ciaren Baker, aged 12, wowed the judges by sent in a singing audition, but it was also his passion to share his enthusiasm for singing.

Ciaren is also keen to help raise awareness and funds in memory of his grandmother who passed away 2 years ago from a brain tumour.

Ciaren will be the first king to ride the floats and wave the flag for Evesham, you can also see him perform live on the stage at Evesham Carnival after the float procession.

Ciaren said: "I want to show other lads that it’s great to be king and to not feel embarrassed just cause your a nearly teenage boy.

"That you can do this. Also to raise money for charity combined with my singing. I want to give the message that’s it’s ok to be you and be who you want to be. My mum has always told me that."

The panel of judges also chose Olivia Hancock, aged 12, from Evesham to wave the flag and be crowned this year's carnival queen.

Olivia said: "I'm really proud to be the carnival queen for 2018. It's amazing. I was really surprised to be nominated and can't believe that I was chosen.

"It means so much to me that the Ladies Circle can see me for me, and not just see my walking sticks and wheelchair.

"Every person who has a disability is a person inside, just the same as everyone else.

"The only difference is they might not be able to walk, or talk or express themself as easily as other people.

"I'm proud to be able to show Evesham that having a disability doesn't have to stop you from doing what you want to do.

"This year I want to show people that if there's something in life you want to do, no matter what obstacles are in your way, you should never give up. Whatever your dream is, you should always give it your all to become the best you can be."

This year the king and queen will also be surrounded by royal attendees.

The Evesham Round Table and carnival committee encourage visitors to bring any old change for the charity collection buckets on the procession. Enjoy a full day of live entertainment, family food, beer and ale tents as well as a selection of stalls.

For more information about this years carnival and procession visit eveshamcarnival.uk

The king and queen of Evesham Carnival 2018 will be available to attend events and openings over the year in return for donations towards their chosen charity. Email eveshamladiescircle@gmail.com for more information.