QUEEN for the day Frances Howell will be decked out in her royal finery thanks to the generosity of Ron and Jean Sproson.

The nine-year-old from Alsager is to open tomorrow's Alsager Carnival after being chosen as the carnival queen.

Frances, a pupil at Highfields Primary School in Alsager, will be wearing an ivory satin dress, ivory silk shoes and gold and pearl diamante tiara.

Her outfit has been donated by Mr and Mrs Sproson, who own Wedding Bliss in Vicarage Lane, Sandbach.

Frances was fitted out in her dress, shoes and tiara on Saturday at the shop, and was delighted when she was told she could keep the outfit.

"I was absolutely stunned when Mr Sproson said Frances could keep everything," said Frances' mum Jackie.

"Mr and Mrs Sproson were really lovely, and Frances was really chuffed with the dress, which is lovely and fitted her perfectly.

"Mr and Mrs Sproson were absolutely wonderful, and they were so professional.

"I'm sure Frances is going to have a fabulous time at the carnival."

Mr and Mrs Sproson have run wedding cars for 14 years, and a wedding shop for four years.

"We were only too happy to help Frances and her mother out," said Mr Sproson.

The parade floats set off at midday at the Twyfords car park, and marchers and walkers can join the parade at St Gabriel's Church.

The parade ends at Milton Gardens, which is hosting an afternoon programme of events which run from 1pm to 5pm.