ORGANISERS of this year's Accrington Festival have declared the contest to find a queen "the best ever."

Some 17 contestants entered, hoping to become the town's carnival queen for the next two years.

But it was 16-year-old student Sasha Fort, of Alleytroyds, Church, who took the honours on a night that saw the Poplar Social Club, Wellington Street, Accrington, packed to the rafters.

"It was the best we have ever done," said Harold Hardman, president of Accrington Lions. "I think seven entered on the night, which was incredible and each contestant brings the family to cheer them on."

Second place went to Laura Hindle, 17, of Oswaldtwistle, with Kayleigh Howarth, of Baxenden, third.

Entertainment was provided by the band Accy Rockers, who gave their services free.

The competition was judged by a panel including hairdresser Pasco Morante, outgoing queen Joanne Swindles, Jean Anstey, wife of Lions president Richard and Graham Chillingham, marketing manager BMW Accrington.

The bi-annual carnival takes place on Saturday, June 21, and Miss Fort, will lead the parade from the Globe Centre, St James Square, Accrington, along Eagle Street, Blackburn Road, Whalley Road, arriving at Peel Park School playing fields, where the day's entertainment will take place.

A competition to find the carnival princess will be held at Oswaldtwistle Mills at 9.30am on Saturday, May 31. It is open to seven to 11-year-olds.