THE search is on for Horwich's royalty - and this year the contest is open to all girls and boys in Bolton.

For the first time in the town's carnival history, organisers are lifting the rules to encourage more entries.

Queens' manager, Kathy Gilfillan said: "In the past, we have kept the search limited to students or those who have worked or lived in Horwich, but numbers have dwindled. We have had a lot of girls who wanted to enter but couldn't and so this year we have decided to open up the search across Bolton."

The organsiers need a queen, aged 15 or over, a junior queen aged 12 to 14, a princess aged eight to 11, a rosebud aged four to seven, and a pageboy aged four to 11.

Selections will be held at the RMI Club on Sunday, April 10, at 12.30pm for a 1pm start. Mrs Gilfillan said: "The successful royalty will have to work tirelessly all year round and entrants need to be committed and hard working.

"Parents also need to be aware of the cost of dressing a carnival royal. Although the committee makes a donation, some financial input is needed.

The royal party will be crowned during this year's carnival on Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26.

But they will be able to use their new title at some events held before the carnival including Civic Sunday and the St George's Day Parade.

Anyone wanting more information can contact Mrs Gilfillan on 01942 816352.