WHEN Verity Brown is crowned rose queen of St Christopher's Church she will be carrying on a family tradition which has spanned more than 30 years.

It was back then that her aunts Carol Thornber and Iris Lightbown (then Eales) took the honour at the very same Blackpool church.

Even her mum Anita and other aunt, Susan Lambert, had their share of glory by forming part of the queen's retinue.

But it doesn't stop there. In the past Verity's cousins Donna Lightbown and Emma Lambert have also been part of the 'royal' throng while Gavin Lightbown and Paul Lambert have donned the prince's costume.

So when Verity's big moment comes on June 25 she will have plenty of people to provide advice.

Says proud mum Anita: "It is a family tradition and when Verity heard she had been chosen this year she was very excited.

"All her aunties are giving her lots of advice about her speech, such as speaking clearly and not getting nervous, and one is making her dress so we are really keeping things in the family."

The 12-year-old Arnold pupil earned the right to her crown through her loyalty to the church she has attended since she was a toddler.

She has also worked her way through the rainbow, brownie and guide packs there and was confirmed three years ago.

On the day itself she will open a garden party and drive to the church in a specially decorated Mercedes.

Then throughout her year Verity, from Harcourt Road, will represent St Christopher's at other rose queens' parties and of course host her own.

According to her family it will be a time she will never forget and she may even be able to pass on her own tips one day.

"You never know, she may have a daughter who will also be rose queen ," said Anita.

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