Officials in Sittingbourne and Teynham have defended accusations carnival courts are outdated and sexist.

They have come under increased scrutiny since an annual contest in Herne Bay was attacked on Twitter.

Kathy Walsh wrote on the social media site: “Something for every young girl to aspire to,
sitting on milk float in nylon dress and makeup, waving to drunk people.

“I want young daughters to aim for more than to be judged on looks as teens.

“Looks and figure are unimportant. Brains, ambition and personality are a must.

“Pageant queens in 2015, really? I love the carnival but not this.”

Chairman Andy Birkitt disputed the claims, arguing it was not a beauty contest and the competitors were asked rigorous questions about their ambitions and personalities.

His comments have been backed up by Teynham Carnival Court vice-chairman and secretary, Jai Frost, who said: “It is a confidence building thing.

“As an ex-queen myself for Sittingbourne and Teynham, it did me the world of good.

“You’ve got to have the courage to get up there and do what these girls do.

“And it’s not a milk float.”

Chairman of the Sittingbourne court, Pam Griggs, also defended the carnival’s record for
featuring well-rounded and
intelligent girls.

She added: “I think the lady who made the comments is
out-of-date herself.

“The girls who take part are proud of their towns and want to represent them.

“Many go on to university and get very good jobs.

“Judging goes more on their personality and confidence, obviously if they are pretty it helps.”

Last month, Jessica Turner, 17, and Ashleigh Taylor, 17, were crowned Miss Sittingbourne and Miss Teynham at their respective ceremonies.