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Diane Phillips has never forgotten when she was queen for a day.

Memories of a crowned head.

When 12-year old Laura Walters was chosen to be Hardingstone May Queen in March this year, the occasion brought back memories for one of the contest judges, Diane Phillps.

Mrs Phillips, who lives in Flore, was the first-ever Hardingstone Carnival Queen, and was crowned in 1960.

Most of the young girls in the village took part in the contest, including 14-year-old Diane Berry - as Mrs Phillips was known then - whose parents were well known in the village.

"When I heard I'd won, it was amazing - I was very surprised," said Diane, who is now a dental receptionist. "I was completely overwhelmed. I didn't expect it at all."

Among the judges that day in May 1960 was the late actress Freda Jackson, whose husband, artist Henry Bird, still lives in the village.

"I think I entered because all my friends were entering." said Diane. "I remember I had my photograph taken by the Chronicle and Echo - it was very exciting."

On the day of the carnival, in June, Diane was truly "Queen for a Day".

From her home she was driven to Bouverie House, where she was crowned.

Then she rode in a float around the village, behind a band from Quebec Barracks, which later became Simpson Barracks.

"I had a lot of mixed feelings. I was nervous, excited and very, very proud. It was a tremendous occasion.

"All the villagers seemed to be there. It was a real community effort."

Diane wore a white brocade dress made especially for her. "I was just an ordinary village girl - it was a tremendous experience."

Diane was invited back to be a judge at this year's context to find a May Queen for the village - and, by coincidence. winner Laura lives in the house Diane herself lived in when she was Queen.

"I shall go to the May fair, but it will be Laura's special day," said Diane. "I shall just be there as a spectator - and a supporter."

Notes on the photographs:
SUCCESSOR - the village's 1994 May Queen, Laura Walters.
HER BIG DAY - Diane, above wearing her crown on her regal float that special day in 1960 when she was Hardingstone Carnival Queen.
JUDGE - Diane, right, as she is today.