A TEENAGE girl is ‘super excited’ to be chosen as parade marshall at this year’s May Day Festival.

Thea Williamson will be leading the historic pageant through the streets of Knutsford today, Saturday, on her young pony.

The 14-year-old felt privileged to make her debut last year, following in the footsteps of the late Joe Gate, who led the procession for more than 40 years.

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Knutsford Guardian: Thea prepares to start her role as parade marshallThea prepares to start her role as parade marshall (Image: Megan Williamson)

Her Knutsford born mum Megan said: “She is super excited and really looking forward to it.

“Thea did amazingly well last year and absolutely loved it.

“It was a great honour.

“We are really proud of her.”

Knutsford Guardian: Thea was honoured to be parade marshallThea was honoured to be parade marshall (Image: Megan Williamson)

Thea will lead the procession, followed by town crier John McDonald, Jack in Green and Unique, a three-year-old Shire horse, owned by Edward Whittaker.

Organisers say this year's pageant should look 'startlingly different' as lots of new costumes will be unveiled.

Knutsford Guardian: Thea has been riding since she was twoThea has been riding since she was two (Image: Megan Williamson)

Generations of families have taken part in this ancient tradition since it was founded in 1864.

Some 600 children in colourful costumes will parade through the streets as thousands of spectators cram onto pavements to watch.

Weaverham High School pupil Thea has been riding since she was two.

An active member of The Pony Club, she was chosen to represent them at the Cheshire Show last year and hopes to be selected again this year.

“She loves her pony,” said Megan.

“It takes a special pony to cope with the excitement of May Day.

“Nala is unflappable. She is very good natured and very trusting.

“She takes it all in her stride.”

Thea spent several hours grooming and preparing six-year-old Nala for her big day.

The procession leaves Egerton House at 2pm and heads onto Toft Road, Adams Hill, King Street, Tatton Street, Princess Street, King Edwards Road, Manchester Road and finishing on The Heath.

All roads used for the procession are closed from 12.50pm to 4pm, including car parks off King Street, Tatton Street and Green Street.

Signs will be erected prior to the event giving details of road closures, diversions and parking restrictions.

Car parking is available for £5 on the small Heath, operated by the Scouts.