TEENAGER Ciara York still can’t believe she is to be this year’s Knutsford Royal May Queen.

The 13-year-old Knutsford Academy student is looking forward to her big day, and is already starting to think about designing her dress.

Ciara said: “I’m very excited about May Day this year. I always look forward to it, and me and my family love to go and take part.

“I can’t still believe that this year I will be May Queen, I feel very lucky to have been given this opportunity.

“When the committee said my name it didn’t sink in for a while. Sophie, who was May Queen last year, handed me the sash and it all became real then.

“She was very kind and gave me a gift, a lovely journal to record my experiences as May Queen.

“2019 will be one I will never forget - all my family will be there, and friends will come and watch.

“Although I’m very excited about the day and all the preparations I am looking forward to my role as May Queen for the year and all the responsibilities that come with that.”

Ciara became involved in May Day in 2013, and has been a dancer in the circus, a mermaid, Maid of Honour, a dancer for the maypole, a peach Seller, and last year, a Lady in Waiting.

Her mum Sophie said: “We Moved to Knutsford when Ciara was six, and from the first May Day procession we went to she was in awe of the May Queen.

“Since then Ciara has made sure she was involved every year and enjoyed every minute of it.

“She has been many characters, and really enjoys the day and the time leading up to it. We had moved from Manchester, and there was nothing like this where we used to live.

“It brings the whole community together… it’s a magical tradition which is only kept alive by the wonderful volunteers and committee.

“We are so excited for Ciara and so proud of her. She has dreamed of being May Queen since she was six.”

Royal May Day committee secretary Eileen Podmore said: “It’s always incredibly difficult selecting a Royal May Queen from so many lovely girls, and we had a fantastic turnout again this year.

“I’m delighted that Ciara was chosen. She is someone who has supported the May Day year after year, and has shown her commitment by taking part in the dancing as well as being involved in the Court. She spoke confidently on the night and beamed throughout. I am certain she will make a delightful May Queen and be a wonderful representative for the whole town.”

Ciara volunteers at SMB dance class, plays hockey with Knutsford Hockey Club and takes part in the school dance group, FUSION at Knutsford Academy.