A YEAR’S service as Holsworthy’s Pretty Maid is nearly at its end for Miss Freya Godfrey, as the town prepares to announce the latest recipient of its prestigious, long-standing accolade steeped in tradition.

Miss Godfrey, a former student at Holsworthy Primary and Holsworthy Community College was unveiled as the recipient of the honour and the dowry that goes with it for the 2024-25 year.

However, in a ceremony to be held at the Church of St Peter and St Paul on Wednesday, July 9, the identity of the new pretty maid will be unveiled to the public.

The Pretty Maid Charity was founded in the mid nineteenth century and was a benefactor in the will of the Rev Thomas Meyrick, of Carta Martha, who died on May 27, 1841. He was the brother of the Rev Owen Meyrick, one-time rector of Holsworthy.

Under the terms of the will the income from the legacy is to be paid annually: “To a young single woman resident in Holsworthy under the age of 30 who is generally esteemed as the most deserving; the most handsome; the most noted for her quietness and attendance at church.”

At the time of announcing Freya to the world Helen Parker, trustee for Speccotts Charity, added: “On behalf of the Speccotts Charity, let me be the first to congratulate you upon receiving this award.”

While the identity of the new Pretty Maid won’t be made public until the midday ceremony, her first day of action will not be without action.

That will be followed by an exhibition by Holsworthy Museum in the car park presentation of the Pretty Maid cup to the owner of the best calf in the St Peter’s Fair Sale show.

There will also be street entertainment, the funfair opening, Holsworthy’s play group, St Peter’s luncheon in the Memorial Hall and a Pretty Maid’s tea in the evening.