Robyn, 16, of Bridle Lane, went before judges earlier this month and was the best of six candidates.

She will take centre stage during the village's time honoured Maypole procession, which features decorated floats, marching bands and children in fancy dress costumes.

She will also open Ossett Gala in July and will give prizes out at next year's World Coal Carrying Championship, held in Gawthorpe.

Robyn, a student at Ossett School sixth form who plans to go to university, said she was delighted to be able to carry on a family tradition.

She said: "I was really happy to be chosen and I'm really looking forward to the procession. My family have always been involved with the maypole celebrations and it's something that is really important to the people round here."

Four years ago Miss Simister was a maid of honour at the Maypole procession.
Susan Walshaw, Gawthorpe Maypole Committee president, said Robyn was an ideal choice.