A SOUTH Lakes school is gearing up for its annual 'Rose Queen' gala, an event which dates back to the Second World War.

Children from Hawkshead Esthwaite Primary School, Hawkshead, will process into the village for dancing on June 22, before returning to the school where there will be various stalls set up as well as pony rides.

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In addition, 2019's chosen 'Rose Queen' will get to process up the village in a Landrover covered in roses. This year's Queen is year five pupil Sophie Johnson, who replaces retiring 2018 Queen Bridgit MacFarlane.

The Gala has been taking place in Hawkshead since 1944, with Isabelle Foster the first recorded Rose Queen.

The Westmorland Gazette: Hawkshead 2019 Rose Queen Sophie Johnson (left) with retiring Queen Bridget MacFarlane and Georgia Oldham (right). Picture: JON GRANGER Hawkshead 2019 Rose Queen Sophie Johnson (left) with retiring Queen Bridget MacFarlane and Georgia Oldham (right). Picture: JON GRANGER

Kate Deakin, office administrator at Hawkshead Esthwaite, said: "It's a fantastic event. We are hoping for some good weather - last year it absolutely poured down."

A raffle will be held to raise money for the school, with prizes including stays in local hotels. The children will also take part in a 'bake off' which will be judged by Kim Merrick, of local cafe Poppi Red. The cakes will then themselves be auctioned off.