THE HUNT is on for this year's Dorchester Carnival Queen.

Mark Allwood, one of the organisers, is inviting local ladies to join the contest and enjoy an evening that will see three semi-finalists go through to a selection by a public vote to choose the carnival queen.

Last year's winner Emmaly Ring will be one of the judges at the event at the King's Arms in Dorchester.

She said: "I really enjoyed the evening - it was great fun. And the carnival was great as well - a real buzz.

"I've done a lot of other events as well. I would say to anyone thinking of entering - have a go. It's a laugh, especially if you come with a friend."

Emmaly, 19, was in the upper sixth form at the Thomas Hardye School when she entered the competition. This time she will be one of the judges at the contest on May 22.

The competition is open to all ladies, aged 18 or over, who live in the DT1 or DT2 postcode areas.

All three semi-finalists will enjoy a week of pampering in the run-up to the carnival and again on carnival day June 21 with their hair and make-up done by New Reflections, before leading the procession on their own float.

Their dresses for the day will be provided by Wedding Time of Dorchester and they will receive a package of prizes from local businesses including a cash prize from Plan It Builders.

The public will vote for their favourite with the winner being announced at the Party in the Park on June 20.

The carnival queen will have a year of activities to look forward to.

Emmaly helped switch on Dorchester's Christmas lights, opened the town's beer festival, helped judge at Puddletown Carnival and presented cheques to charities at the post carnival presentation evening.

She will also be starting the runners in the Race for Life charity event at Kingston Maurward on June 8.

Emmaly said: "The year has been great fun. It's something completely different and something to tell your children about in years to come."

Anyone interested in taking part is asked to complete an application form, available from New Reflections, the King's Arms, Dorchester Tourist Information Centre or online at the website dorchestercarnival.co.uk Mr Allwood said organisers Ellipse, the local fundraising group, preferred to have forms submitted in advance but could also accept entries on the night.

Competitors are asked to wear a going-out outfit and one that reflects a hobby or interest.

For more information call 01305 259991.

The carnival week will include a street fair, a four-legged pub race and a funfair and the procession will take the theme of It's a Musical World.