AN Accrington teenager is practising her waves after becoming the town’s official Queen.

Bethany Donohue was crowned Accrington Carnival Queen at a glitzy event.

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The 18-year-old, who wants to become a primary school teacher and work with disadvantaged children, is now looking forward to a year as ambassador for the district at public events.

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She said: “It was really really good. There were a lot of contestants and they all looked beautiful.

“There were a lot of people there and I was really nervous.

“I didn’t expect to win because there were a lot or really pretty girls.”

Her first job will be at the Carnival in two weeks’ time.

Bethany said: “I will have to judge the floats on the day and I have to sit in a car and wave at everyone.

“But I won’t be waving like the real Queen. I will be more like Kate Middleton.”

Bethany is reading Education Studies at Leeds Beckett University, where she is known ‘the Accy Girl’.

She added: “They all say Accrington Stanley, like in the milk advert!”

The two runners-up were law student Molly Greenwood, a 20-year-old from Oswaldtwistle, and 19-year-old lifeguard Sarah Louise Munroe, of Baxenden, who is studying architecture in Liverpool. Tracy Simmonds, president of Accrington Lions, said: “Kimberley, the outgoing Queen, has had so many doors opened for her over the past two years.

“Now it’s Bethany’s time. She is a bright girl with a big character. She absolutely loves Accrington and will be a great ambassador for the town.”

This morning the Carnival Princess, for girls aged between six and 11, was being decided at Oswaldtwistle Mills between 9.30am and 11am.

Carnival day is Saturday, June 13.