Brave teenager Lisa Winfield was Witham Carnival's queen of courage as she led the parade through a packed town.

Just weeks earlier she had been injured in an A12 car smash with her mum. But plucky Lisa vowed the show must must go on and put in a dazzling performance at Saturday's event - making her mum Bonnie so proud.

The 15-year-old waved to crowds from her carnival float, despite being in pain.

Shoppers and workers lined the streets to cheer on the procession, unaware Lisa was still suffering from her injuries.

Some carnival-watchers spotted Lisa was wearing a special surgical neck brace for support - hidden under her white carnival queen dress.

Her first official duty - formally declaring the carnival open - was a daunting debut in the main arena.

But she put memories of the road smash behind her to deliver a superb solo speech to a huge audience.

Lisa admitted she was a bit nervous in front of so many people.

Town mayor Tom Hewitt said: "Lisa was very brave. She did the business and delivered a great speech."

Lisa, from Burdun Close, Witham, said she was looking forward to her year in the prestigious role.

Carnival chairman Dave Waddington was quick to applaud her courage.

"She is still suffering from the accident. Having to wear a neck brace isn't the most pleasant thing so she did really well," he said.

Last year's queen - Joanna Hendricks, who is the UK Queen of Queens - handed over the title to Lisa. The new queen had princesses Carli Victor, aged 14, and Kayleigh Fitch, 11, to give her support as she appeared in front of hundreds of carnival-goers.

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