The hunt is on to find the first ever Deal Classic Motor Show queen and princess.

Show organiser Chris West and car enthusiast Gordon Johnston are searching for two women to open the annual event on Saturday, May 27.

They are looking for outgoing over 16-year-olds who can be selected in advance to parade the show collecting donations for chosen charities Walmer RNLI and Martha Trust.

The chosen pair, who need to be confident talking to strangers, will be given a T-shirt, sash and tiara to wear.

Mr West said: “This will be our sixth year in Deal but the first time ever that we’ll have our own queen and princess.

“I started it because the RNLI was looking for funds. I’d been doing shows elsewhere so I said I’d set one up on Walmer Green for them.

“It’s now the biggest one I do, raising more than £15,000 in five years, and the largest attended visitor event for cars in Kent.”

Last year, more than 800 vehicles filled the Green from Walmer Paddling Pool right up to Walmer Castle.

This year’s show is set to top that, with more than 440 classics already booked to take part.

Exhibitor Gordon Johnston has displayed his pride and joy, a Gilburn, at the event each year.

He also travels to Arras in France and Bury St Edmund’s to exhibit the eye-catching one off vehicle.

It was his idea to recruit a queen and princess to help boost the funds raised.

Other vehicles set to feature include Model T Fords and Aston Martins.

There will be scooters, tractors and lorries, too, plus Bessie, the knitted car owned by Pat Wilson and her friends, which will be taking part in its second European tour to Monte Carlo later this year.

Kerry Rubins, fundraising and events officer for Martha Trust, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Chris and Gordon who agreed to support Martha Trust in our 30th year. We look forward to seeing lots of people there.”

Applicants will need to send a full length photo and some information about themselves, plus contact details, to gordonjohnston@timetalk.co.uk by Thursday, April 6.

Shortlisted entrants will be invited to an interview.

The show also has space for free charity stalls. To apply for a place, call Chris on 07841 598076.

n To register your car visit classicmusicandmotors.co.uk