The search is on for Beccles Carnival's next royal representatives.

Eastern Daily Press: Miss Beccles Stephanie Tsang in last year's Beccles Carnival Parade. Picture: James BassMiss Beccles Stephanie Tsang in last year's Beccles Carnival Parade. Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk � 2016)

Applications are now open for the 2017 Miss Beccles, her two princess attendants and the town's prince, with the latter role introduced for the first time last year.

The queen and princess roles have been part of Beccles Carnival for more than 50 years, and the winning contestants will represent the town at the carnival on Saturday and Sunday, August 19 and 20, as well as attending various functions, fundraisers and fetes and travelling to other carnivals in the area throughout the year.

This year's selection afternoon will take place on Sunday, May 14, at Beccles Public Hall, with doors opening at 2.30pm for a 3pm start.

The princess role is open to girls between the ages of eight and 13, with the same age range for those wishing to become prince. And the Miss Beccles competition is open to those aged 17 and over.

Eastern Daily Press: Princesses Brooke Lay and Faith Alexander in last year's Beccles Carnival parade. Picture: James BassPrincesses Brooke Lay and Faith Alexander in last year's Beccles Carnival parade. Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk � 2016)

Handing over the crown will be last year's Miss Beccles Stephanie Tsang, who was joined by princesses Faith Alexander and Brooke Lay and the first ever Beccles Carnival prince Joshua Brabben.

To enter the competition you must live within eight miles of Beccles Public Hall, or go to school or work in Beccles.

The organisers would like to stress there is no upper age limit for the Miss Beccles role and it is not a beauty contest.

The four winners will be expected to attend Beccles Hospital Fete, the Lord Mayor's Procession and the Beccles Carnival weekend.

Entrants must also be happy to ride on the lorry in the carnival procession, sell raffle tickets and carnival programmes at events.

The newly crowned Miss Beccles and princesses will be given sashes, tiaras, capes and dresses to wear for all official carnival duties during the year, with a crown, sash and suit for the prince.

Spectators are welcome to watch the competition and admission is £3 for adults and £1 for children.

To find out more about what the role involves or for an application form visit www.becclescarnival.co.uk or email the organisers at becclescarnival@outlook.com.