THREE lucky girls are preparing to take their places at the head of a carnival procession through a York village.

Alexandra Spratt, five, has been chosen as the carnival queen for the Stockton-on-the-Forest Queen's Golden Jubilee Carnival.

She will be joined by attendants Lucy Acklam, six, and Maya Blakeway, also six, who, like Alexandra, attend Stockton-on-the-Forest Primary School.

The annual procession from Stockton Hall to the village hall will be led by the St Chad's Greys Scout Band, of South Bank, York.

A celebration event will be held at the village hall with live music from 1066, the Stamford Bridge singers, and entertainment from Uncle Mal the magician.

Organiser Vicky Gilbert said that more than 300 people were expected to attend the colourful and fun event.

Games, competitions and stalls will also be held for visitors at the show on Saturday, June 22.

The procession will start at 2pm.

Updated: 11:36 Monday, May 27, 2002