Spalding Flower Queen shortlist features a man for the first time

The presence of a man among the nine contenders to be Spalding Flower Queen is a sign of the contest adapting to fit modern times, according to the event’s organiser.

A sell-out red carpet gala evening at The Vista in Spalding on March 9 will see the contenders appear in front of a panel of judges in the bid to crown a flower queen and deputy in time for the 2024 parade.

When the candidates were revealed, the presence of Keith Ratcliff among the line-up caused a stir.

However, Spalding Flower Parade organiser Stephen Timewell said: “I am delighted that the competition includes a man for the first time. Whilst it may seem to break tradition, it is totally in keeping with modern times. I said from the start that the competition is all inclusive, with no discrimination at all.

“The trouble is, I cannot please everyone and, whilst some may disagree with Keith entering, I think that variety is good

“The judges will be choosing a winner, not on gender or sexual orientation but on personality and the one who will represent Spalding best for 2024.”

Mr Timewell added: “This red carpet event will be really special.

“We will be dressing the hall in true Hollywood style with movie props, giant Oscars and a special appearance from our Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car and the Tardis.”

The flower queen hopefuls will be interviewed in front of a panel of judges and the winners will be presented with their crowns and sashes by the outgoing holders of the posts Holly Kendrick and Star Perry.

Get the news delivered straight to your inbox every morning - sign up to The Briefing here

Their first engagement will be appearing in the Spalding Flower Parade on May 11 and they will visit Jersey in August to represent Spalding in the Jersey Battle of Flowers as well as engagements in the district throughout the year.

Mr Timewell added: “Last year I am so proud that I managed to reinstate the relationship between Spalding and Jersey.

“They made us very welcome when we went over in August and we look forward to their flower queen coming over in May, along with their official council representatives.

“Their Flower Queen will be in our parade.

“Cultural ties with other areas are really important to me.”

Ticket holders will enjoy a hog roast followed by a live performance from band Paisley Circus.

Here are the entrants vying for the title:

Hannah Michael

Hannah is 19 years old and works as a hotel receptionist at the George Hotel in Stamford. She enjoys the gym, walking and is currently training for a marathon. She describes herself as a confident person, friendly and compassionate.

Ellie Warfield

Aged 19 and from Spalding, Ellie is a stylist at Levi Strauss in Springfields.

She loves fashion and attending 1940s events. She loves to help others and describes herself as a free spirit.

Bethany Donnelly

Bethany is 25 years old and lives in Pinchbeck. She is a full time mum but has a passion for cooking, singing and looking after her children. She describes herself as a funny, outgoing person with a big personality.

Demi Fontaine Gilchrist

Demi is a 27-year-old, full time student. Demi lives in Spalding and enjoys baking and making videos.

She describes herself as a fun and loving person and she enjoys a challenge

Louise Hoppe

Louise is 21 and a second year midwife student at the university in Peterborough. She describes herself as a hard working individual, confident and always looking to expand her horizons.

Molly Ireland

Molly is 18 years old and works at Tonic Health as a wellbeing connector. She has enjoyed acting in the past but now prefers baking, socialising and family time. She is keen to take on a new challenge

Abigail Sara Ferrell

Aged 31, Abigail lives in Spalding and works as a consultancy manager at Nene Park Trust. She describes herself as bubbly, kind and caring. She enjoys gardening, running and socialising

Keith Ratcliff

Keith is a 63 year old software support consultant who lives in Spalding. He describes himself as an open, kind and loving person, comfortable with public appearances. He believes his positive attitude will be an asset to Spalding if he is elected as Flower Queen.

Rebecca Roberts

Rebecca is 36 and lives in Pinchbeck and works as a finance manager at TC Bulley Davey and enjoys reading, volunteering and exercising.

Tickets are sold out for the event, but there will be the opportunity to live stream the action via the Spalding Flower Parade Facebook group.