The deadline for entries into this year's Miss Beccles and carnival prince and princess competition has been extended to give people more time to enter.

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 20 and 21, 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 1, at Beccles Public Hall from 2.30pm, and the deadline for entries has been extended to Wednesday, April 27.

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 Miss Beccles is open to those aged 17 and over. All entrants must live within an eight mile radius of Beccles.

Last year's Miss Beccles was Christine Soanes who said she had a great time representing her town and has made lots of new friends in the process and would encourage others to enter.

Miss Soanes, along with last year's princesses Hannah Borton and Bethany Newly, will help to judge the contest and crown the winners.

All four will receive a cash prize and will be supplied with dresses or a suit to wear.

Yvette-Marie Tackley, one of the organisers said: 'We cannot stress enough that it is not a beauty contest - all contestants will be judged on their personality, poise and dress sense.

'We are looking for girls and boys that will represent the town and do it proud at various events during the forthcoming year.'

Tickets for the selection afternoon will be available on the door at £3 per person. Entry for competitors is free.

Entries will not be accepted on the day. For more information and to request an application form contact Annette on 01502 715671 or email becclescarnival@outlook.com