A girl with an incurable condition as been granted her wish to be a real princess.

Ella Barden, eight, has Cockaynes Syndrome - a genetic disorder which prematurely ages her and gives her life expectancy of just 12.

Ella, who attends Southview Primary School, was chosen as an honorary princess of the Witham Carnival last Saturday when the selection took place at Maltings Academy.

Amy Chesson, 19, who is working towards her Level Three apprenticeship at Riventots Preschool, in Rivenhall, was chosen as queen.

The princesses were selected as Cailey Hackett, 10, who attends Howbridge Junior School, Witham, and nine-year-old Caitlyn Shaw, who attends St Andrew Junior School, in Hatfield Peverel.

Lillia Victor-Berry, seven, of Silver End Primary School, is the rosebud queen.

The Witham Carnival is on July 11 and starts at the Witham Football Club at 1.30pm and makes its way up the high street.

The theme this year is Fashion through the ages.

There will also be a variety of arena acts and stalls in Maldon Road Park along with a fun fair.

**Witham Carnival Association is looking for volunteers to join its committee and are in desperate need to find someone help tow the carnival float to different carnivals across Essex from June to September.

Please get in contact with Carly on 07769 152330 or chaperone@withamcarnival.org.uk if you can help.