BUBBLY Grace Biddle took the crown at Accrington Lions' carnival princess competition.

The Accrington seven-year-old scooped the 1997 title after being interviewed by the compere during the event held at McDonalds, Accrington.

Blond-haired Grace who attends St John's School, Baxenden, beat off tough competition from 32 hopefuls to be chosen by judges.

It was later revealed her sister Naomi scooped the same title four years ago!

Mum, Lorraine, said: "Grace is absolutely thrilled to bits.

"She spent the night in rollers to perfect her curls and can't wait to get started as princess."

Charlotte Cole, 8, took second place, and 11-year-old Nicola Lynch was third. Both live in Baxenden. Laurie Denton of Accrington Lions said: "It is the first year McDonalds have sponsored the event and it was a great success.

"The judges had a very difficult task. Grace won £50 and a £25 dress voucher. She will make a series of guest appearances including leading the procession on June 21 with the carnival queen."

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