Eight young ladies entered a competition for the chance to be Miss Sittingbourne 2014 -but there could only be one winner.

And in the end it was Georgia Lane, 16, who took the crown. She will be supported in her role throughout the year by her two princesses Ashleigh Taylor and Kendle Hunter, who are also 16.

They were chosen during a selection evening held at Woodcoombe Sports and Social Club in Murston on Saturday.

The girls were interviewed privately at the beginning of the evening by a panel of judges consisting of the Mayor of Swale, Cllr Sue Gent, Cllr Ben Stokes and Asda’s community life champion Claire Fosbeary who is also a former town queen.

They then took it in turns to speak on stage and answer questions put to them by compere Maria Lawrence (Miss Sittingbourne 2010).

Before welcoming the new court, outgoing Miss Sittingbourne, Heidi Knight, 17, and princesses, Hannah Bradford, 19, and Shaunie Jarrett, 18, gave goodbye speeches and performed a final curtsey.

Pam Griggs, chairman of Sittingbourne Carnival Association, said competition had been close. “We had a very successful evening with 14 other carnival courts attending,” she said.

“The hall was packed with around 180 people, and all remarked on leaving that they had a very enjoyable evening.

“The three lucky ones were stunned when their names were called and all said they were very happy to be chosen but could not believe it.

“Their first event as a court will be this Sunday of the new Dover Town Court selection.”