SOUTHEND’S new carnival court has been crowned Southend Mayor Andrew Moring crowned Chloe Davey, 16, carnival queen, with her princesses Madison Ball and Carla Davey, both aged 13.

Local business leaders and community groups attended the event at Southend’s Park Inn Palace Hotel to welcome the new carnival court and get a preview of the exciting carnival events coming up in August.

Queen Chloe said: “I am honoured to have been selected as the new carnival Queen.

“It really means a lot to me.

“I’m looking forward to representing Southend Carnival with my princesses and I’m excited to meet people within the community during the fun events.”

Princess Madison added: “I wanted to be part of Southend carnival court because I enjoy meeting new people and being part of the local community while also helping raise money for charity.”

The crowning event included a song and dance performance from La Danse Fantastique, a performing arts school for mixed ability children with special needs, while guests enjoyed a Rossi ice cream served up by the Rossi Bear.

This year’s carnival events will begin on Thursday, August 13 and will finish with the highlyanticipated Southend SummerCare carnival procession on Saturday, August 22.

The events include the popular carnival funfair in Chalkwell Park, a children’s fancy dress competition and a brand new event to be announced very soon.

Garry Lowen, Southend Carnival chairman, said: “It’s a fantastic way to get involved in your local community, to support Southend, and is also a chance to promote your business or group, show off your skills and also to fundraise for your own choice of charity.

“Our thanks must go to our sponsors and supporters, especially Summer- Care for their involvement, VIP security for ensuring the events are safe, Swan Creative for designing our colourful banners and programmes, Rossi Ice Cream for supporting the children's events as well as support from Genting Casino and Olympus Keymed.

“Without their support, the carnival wouldn’t be possible.”

Places have been filling up fast in the carnival procession, but there is still time to be part of the parade.

“Anyone can enter the carnival – individuals, friends, families, businesses, community groups, clubs, charities – and you don’t have to have a float or a vehicle to join in.

“If you are interested in entering the carnival procession, then you should email info@southendcarnival.

org.uk Find Southend Carnival on Facebook for all the latest event information, visit facebook.com/ SouthendCarnival or visit southendcarnival.org.uk