In recent years it has proved expensive and difficult to find candidates for the role of Carnival Queen.

The decision was taken a few years ago to have a mascot, figurehead to represent the Yarmouth Carnival. It was debated in Committee and was decided that for no particular reason, the Mallishag would in the future be that mascot.

A costume was commissioned and now we have our own mascot to lead the Carnival Parade.

A mallishag is the caterpillar of the white butterfly, often found on cabbages. This word, well known on the island as part of the local dialect, according to the English Dialect Dictionary, is also to be found in Gloucestershire, Yorkshire and Hampshire.

"Bwoys is made a purpose to tarment mankind, zame as mallishags and vleys" from 'Reproach of Annesley' by Maxwell Gray 1889.