First male finalist for Spalding Flower Queen

Keith Ratcliff, 62, is among the hopefuls for Spalding Flower Queen 2024

A 62-year-old man nicknamed "Mr Pink" has become the first male finalist for Flower Queen in Spalding's Flower Parade.

The annual parade, which celebrates the area's flower-bulb-growing heritage, returned last year after a decade's absence.

The role of Flower Queen dates back to 1950 and involves riding a float decorated with flowers in the parade.

Keith Ratcliff said it would be "amazing" to be chosen as 2024 Flower Queen.

Tulips at Spalding Flower Parade in 2023

Nine finalists for Flower Queen have been selected and the winner will be chosen by a panel at an election night in March.

Mr Ratcliff, the only male finalist, said he entered because he thought it "would be a bit of fun".

Mr Ratcliff who "enjoys paddle boarding, dancing and loves pink" said he was "very pleasantly surprised" to be selected as a finalist.

"It'd be amazing to be up there on the float going round the town," he said.

Molly Ireland, 18, another finalist, said she was "very excited" to be shortlisted, adding that it is "great" Keith is taking part.

"If I wasn't in the running I'd be all over it. I'd be like: 'Go Keith!'" she said.

Molly Ireland, 18, said she was "very excited" to be a Flower Queen finalist

Steve Timewell, the organiser of Spalding Flower Parade, said there has been a Flower Queen since the parade started but this is the first time a man has been in the running.

"In keeping with current times and being all-inclusive, we've let anyone enter the competition," Mr Timewell said.

"He's full of fun, vibrant and just like all of the other contestants he'd be great at representing Spalding," he said.