IF she isn't on the football field, 14-year-old Zoe Richardson is usually treading the boards with the Eastleigh Borough Youth Theatre.

But the midfield dynamo, who has just completed her last season playing for Southampton Saints Women's Football Club's under-14 team, will be taking time out to rule the waves at this year's Hedge End carnival.

For Wildern School pupil, Zoe, has been chosen as Hedge End carnival queen and will reign over the 2004 festivities which culminate in the grand carnival procession on July 3.

Even though she lists football and drama as her main hobbies, Zoe won't feel out of place at the head of the procession because she was a carnival princess six years ago.

She said: "I am really excited about leading the carnival procession. I can remember how good it was being a carnival princess and being the queen is going to be brilliant. I know that there have been lots of inquiries from people wanting to take part in the procession so it looks as if I could be leading an even bigger parade than last year."

Completing the carnival court will be attendant Katie Whettingsteel, princesses Georgia Paddick and Harriet Temple along with senior queen Lyn Davis.