TIME is running out to be the new king and queen at Worcester Carnival.

The closing date for applications is this Friday (March 31) with winners then being chosen following an informal interview.

Carnival president, Alan Feeney said: "There is so much for the winners to look forward to.

"This is also the first time in history that Worcester will have a carnival king in an effort to make the roles more inclusive.

"We are arranging lots of special treats for the winners and it will be something they will remember for the rest of their lives.

"This is fully inclusive and open to absolutely anyone who wants to try for it. We want to hear from everyone."

Applicants will meet with a panel from the carnival committee as well as carnival partners Armstrong's and Cathedral Belles before a winner is chosen.

Anyone who is aged over 18 and over who lives in the Worcester city boundary is invited to apply.

All they need to do is send in a colour head and shoulders photo with 100 words on why they think they would make the ideal King or Queen by emailing info@worcester-carnival.co.uk or dropping it off at Cathedral Belles in Deansway.

Once the royals are selected they will spend the following weeks being pampered and specially fitted for a suit or dress of their choice to get ready for the big day.

On the day of the carnival, they will both have a special treat of professional hair styling and also make-up for the queen.

They will also enjoy a special reception with the Mayor of Worcester and his officers before being crowned in front of thousands of visitors as the carnival is declared open.

The king and queen will visit the children’s ward at Worcestershire Royal Hospital to deliver balloons to those children unable to make it to the carnival.

There will also be a special treat for two lucky youngsters who will become the carnival prince and princess, chosen from those in the care of Acorn’s Children’s Hospice.