Published: Monday, 22nd May, 2006 16:54
Beltane Joy for 'special' Sara
By Hannah Jefferson
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SARA Al-KASHMIN has always been her mum and dad’s little princess but this year she will also be a Queen.
The 11-year-old from Priorsford Primary School is next in line to the throne of The Beltane Festival.
Proud dad Ahmed, rushed away from work in the city on Wednesday when he heard the news.
And caught up with his daughter at Tweed Green – only stopping to pick up flowers and champagne.
He told the Peeblesshire News: “We are shocked and delighted.
“She’s always been a very popular girl and well liked.
“When she was born her grandad, who recently died, said ‘this girl is going to be something special.’ He loved the Beltane and would have been very proud.”
Despite her popularity with friends and family Sara certainly wasn’t expecting to be offered the royal throne this summer.
She said: “It was a big surprise, there are so many people so I had never thought it would be me.
“I was getting ready to clap and when I heard my name I didn’t know what to do.
“It’s a dream come true.”
The Priorsford pupil received loud applause from fellow classmates during the introduction ceremony at the drill hall.
And her headteacher, Karen Smith, was quick to pay tribute to the star pupil.
She said: “She’s one of those children who really stands out. She’s an all round lovely person.
“She has a lot of support from her peers as was obvious from the cheers.”
The honour is a perfect birthday present for the Peebles girl, who turns 12 next week.
Sport-mad Sara will be swapping the netball court for the Beltane royal court in June.
And the talented singer, who belongs to the Top Choristers at the Parish Church, will be well practiced for the Beltane song.
She will also be keeping an eye out for little sister Hannah who is gearing up for her first year in the Beltane parade.
Fellow classmates from Priorsford as well as peers in Kingsland and Halyrude are also looking forward to taking up their posts in the Queen’s court
27 pupils were chosen for royal roles out of 120 Primary sevens in the three primary schools.
Cornet Elect, Russell Copeland presented the sash to Sara Al-Kashmin and the Queen and her court were greeted by proud parents and locals outside the Drill Hall before processing down the High Street.
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