A CARNIVAL crisis was solved "Cinderella" style after last-minute preparations for Eastleigh's annual fun week hit trouble.

Organisers were put in a spin after Tracey Harvey stepped down from her carnival princess role with just two weeks to go to the big event.

Tracey, who is moving away from the Eastleigh area, had already been fitted out with her regal gown in preparation for her starring role.

But the problem was solved fairytale-style when the £200 dress was found to be a perfect fit for 11-year-old Sophie Carrott, who had also entered the princess competition.

Carnival spokeswoman Clair Wilkinson said: "This was the first time anything like this had happened in the history of Eastleigh Carnival.

"We were in a slight panic because we did not want the carnival to go ahead with only one princess.

"The competition to find a queen and the princesses includes nominees who could step in should any unforeseen circumstances occur.

"We were just lucky to find someone else who fitted the dress. It was rather like Cinderella and the slipper."

But as well as stepping into the limelight, Sophie will also pick up a clutch of prizes.

They include £100 towards a holiday, and a five-day trip to Germany.

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