THE hunt is on to find Droitwich Spa's Queen of the Carnival for 2003. For the first time in six years, the town event is back and organisers have teamed up with the Droitwich Spa Advertiser to find the young hopeful who deserves to wear the carnival crown.

THE honourable title of Droitwich Spa Queen of the Carnival is up for grabs for the first time since 1996.

Townsfolk agreed to revive the summer spectacular last year and organisers are keen the queen's traditional role is not forgotten.

Former winners Sarah Banner, of Cutnall Green and Kathryn Warburton, of Tagwell Road, helped launch the right royal quest and will be among judges.

Women aged 16 or upwards, from Droitwich or surrounding areas, can vie for the prestigious role, which includes leading the procession of floats and a weekend of fun events beginning on Friday July 4.

Carnival committee chairman Gordon Hughes is promising an exciting package for the winner.

"We aim to secure a top prize, which could be a holiday or weekend away.

"The lucky queen will keep her title for 12 months and I'm sure she can expect lots of invites to town events."

The Spa's George Spinner Lodge of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes has stumped up the original trophy.

Budding queens are invited to the first heat at Droitwich Spa Rugby Club, Hanbury Road, on Saturday May 17.

Their photo will be taken and printed in the Advertiser.

Readers can vote for their favourite and the top ten girls will enter the second heat on June 14, at the Royal British Legion, in Salwarpe Way.

Both evening events will include a live band and professional compere.

The finalists will take the stage to talk about themselves and why they should become Queen of the Carnival.

The winner will be announced at the Carnival Ball, on Saturday June 28. A venue is yet to be announced.

Mr Hughes told the Advertiser: "We don't expect people to parade in swim wear. "We want a community spirited person who would make the most of this special role."

He has asked the Norbury Theatre to provide a costume.

Sarah Banner, now aged 27, reigned between 1996 and 1997.

The mum-of-one said: "I was 21 at the time and the title gave me some wonderful opportunities and many happy memories."

Interested folk can send a photograph of themselves along with details of their name, address, age, job and hobbies to Gordon Hughes at 61 Clayhill Road, Droitwich Spa WR9 7RT. The deadline is May 1.