The youngsters set to represent Witham at events across the county throughout the coming year have been chosen.

On Saturday, the town's new carnival court was selected at a special dance at Maltings Academy.

Five youngsters from the area, aged between six and 14 have been chosen and will go on to attend dozens of events throughout 2018 and 2019 on behalf of Witham.

This year's Queen is Maltings Academy pupil Charli Piper, 14.

She will be joined by Princess Shreya Rajeev, 13, a pupil at Anglo European School, in Ingatestone.

Terling Primary School pupil Charlie Webster, ten, will also take up the mantle of Princess.

Carla Nugara, eight, an Elm Hall Primary School student, fills the final Princess spot.

This year's Rosebud Queen will be Terling Primary School pupil Lily-Mae Webster, six.

The court will officially begin duties on Saturday, July 7, at a crowning ceremony attended by Witham Town Mayor, MP Priti Patel and the retiring 2017 Court.

Just a week later, on Saturday, July 14, the court will attend Witham Carnival.

This year's theme is Lets Go Retro and the festivities kick off at Witham Rugby Club at 1.30pm as usual.