THE carnival court queen and princesses enjoyed a long-awaited official crowning.
Maldon Carnival court was officially crowned by the town mayor and deputy town mayor after a year-long wait, on Wednesday, August 11.
Traditionally the court would have been crowned at the start of carnival week, one week before carnival day.
However, due to Covid and the cancellation of the procession, this was not possible.
The new court members were greeted by a horse and carriage and enjoyed a ride visiting Brewster House care home, travelling up to Maldon High Street, around the town and dropped off at All Saints Church.
The ceremony took place at the town hall where the girls were met by mayor David Ogg, Carl Wakefield of Plume School, Miss Cleghorn from Great Totham Primary School, and Kathy Vale from Morrisons Community Champion.
Read more:
>>> IN PICTURES: Maldon Carnival princesses enjoy all the fun of the fair
>>> Tributes pour in for former Maldon carnival queen Theresa
It began with a goodbye to 2019 carnival princess Abigail Gosshawk.
Then the court members made a promise to the town mayor, David Ogg, to represent the town and do their best as a member of the court.
The mayor officially crowned the new court in front of a crowd of friends and family.
Queen Eleanor-Mae made a heartwarming acceptance speech on behalf her new court.
After the ceremony, the court and guests enjoyed an afternoon tea with cream and cakes.
The girls had their nails painted by Scarlett Nails and their portrait drawn by caricature artist, Hen the Pen.
A spokesman for the carnival said: "Maldon Carnival is hoping to carry on the traditional carnival procession next year."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here