The new Redbridge Carnival Queen was chosen last night after a closely contested audition process.

The event was held at hairdressing salon Toni and Guy in High Road, Ilford and saw seven finalists hoping to land the ambassadorial role.

It was won by Julia Gold after she impressed a judging panel which included Redbridge Mayor Cllr Chris Cummins, salon manager Kiran Patti and former queen Kaijul Pahl.

The runners up were Natashai Ragavan and Neelam Raval who will be carnival princess.

Entrants were given some public speaking training before they were asked questions about their community involvement and hobbies.

They also strutted down a catwalk after having their hair styled and make up applied by salon staff.

Mr Cummins said: “It was a close event and very difficult to pick a winner.

“There was little between the girls and all of them would have represented the borough well.

“We decided to choose Julia because of her communication and presentation skills and her all round ability.”

Carnival chairman Wilson Chowdhry said: “The amount of community work these girls are involved in is remarkable and a real benefit to our borough and the carnival.

“We hope the annual post held by these girls will be beneficial in helping them to learn new competencies they will be able to transfer to their future work and societal roles.

“Thanks to Toni and Guy staff for arranging an awesome evening.”