Tipton's carnival queen is crowned

A Black Country student nurse was crowned Tipton Carnival Queen 2011 as the competition returned after a year's absence.

Jodie Brooks won the tiara watched by150 people at Brook Street Community Centre.

The 50-year-old competition was scrapped last year due to dwindling numbers and "differences and disagreements" but reintroduced after a surge of support.

Student nurse Jodie, aged 19, of O'Connor Drive, was queen alongside princess Ruth Davison, 12, rosebud Faye Cartwright, 11, and sweet pea Megan Leigh Breakspear, 6.

Competition co-ordinator Angie Mullany said there were 24 entrants, all of whom were confident and bubbly. The girls, who were interviewed by judges, were cheered on by their family and friends before the winners were announced yesterday afternoon.

Mrs Mullany added: "After the success of this year, I think we will go on to even bigger and better things. All of the girls were so lovely, they should all be very proud."

Former Willingsworth High Schoo student Jodie added: "I've never done anything like this before so am very shocked that I won." The carnival will take place on the weekend of June 11 at Jubilee Park.