As leader of the day's procession, the gala queen had been a symbol of the town's youth and glamour since the first event in 1956.

Now, seven years after the position of gala queen was abandoned in a fit of political correctness, the role is to be reinstated.

The position of queen was dropped in 2002 in favour of an ambassador which, after one unsuccessful year, was itself dropped,

But organisers are to bring back the queen – and possible candidates are being urged to put themselves forward.

Procession marshall Terence Sutcliffe said: "I think it was perhaps a little hasty to get rid of the queen and she's coming back by popular demand.

"Halifax is the only gala around without this traditional role and I think people will be delighted to have it back."

The reintroduction is part of a revamp of the whole opening procession which will include fewer floats and more dancers and marchers.

Mr Sutcliffe said: "There were one or two complaints last year because people felt the procession was a little low key. But the fact is insurance costs mean putting on floats can be incredibly expensive.

"So this year we are appealing to dancing groups, marching groups and community groups to come up with innovative ways to join the procession and march through the town to create a real carnival experience."

The queen will lead off in a special car. The position also involves meeting a number of dignitaries, including the Mayor of Calderdale. There are no responsibilities after gala day itself.

Mr Sutcliffe said: "We're looking for a girl aged 15 or 16 who can present herself well and do the town proud."

Candidates will face an interview, with the winner announced in mid- May.

The gala will be held on Saturday June 13. During its 52-year history it has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for a variety of charities.