THE May Queen of a Fenland primary school will be sporting a brand new dress at the May Day Fair tomorrow thanks to a generous last-minute donation.

John Lewis, in Peterborough, came to the rescue of Coates Primary School, when they discovered that the old dress was ripped just days before the fair.

Steve Mann, from John Lewis, said: “When we heard that the May Queen’s dress had been damaged and that the school was struggling to replace it, we didn’t hesitate in offering to help.

“The dress we’ve donated is a beautiful ivory bridesmaid dress and I’m sure whichever lucky girl gets to wear it, she will look lovely and feel really special on the day.”

Joanne Tomlins, Head Teacher at Coates Primary School, said: “I can’t thank John Lewis enough for their generosity. The damaged dress has been worn by May Queens from the school for years, and a piece of history has been lost.

“But with the wonderful donation from John Lewis we have a new dress that can be worn by the school’s May Queens for years to come, starting its own bit of tradition.”

The May Day Fair takes place on Coates’ village green from 1-4pm. As well as the traditional crowning of the May King and Queen, there will be Maypole dancing, a fairground, dog show, car boot sale, various charity stalls, family games and competitions, barbecue, a display by local army cadets, face painting and a football competition. Anyone wanting to take part in the car boot sale should call 07873 259901.