A 150-year-old regatta is to have a beauty queen after all.

After only one girl entered the contest in Whitby last year, the regatta committee was preparing to axe this year's event until 18-year-old Helen Clarke stepped in.

Helen, of John Street, Whitby, a drama student at Yorkshire Coast College, Scarborough, was nominated by a friend and will now be the star of the regatta, which is held next month.

She will present prizes, take a military salute, and lead a carnival parade.

Jane Kenyon, president of the regatta committee, said: "We are delighted that Helen stepped forward. I am sure she will have a memorable weekend and be a splendid ambassador for the young people of the town."