TALENTED youngsters across Dudley borough will be going head to head in a special writing competition.

Primary school pupils are being encouraged to compete for the title of Dudley Young Writer of the Year.

The award aims to celebrate the best in children’s fiction, non-fiction and poetry and showcase the talents of pupils aged seven to 11.

There will be two age categories for each subject – seven to nine years and 10 to 11 years -  with the winners to be announced at a special ceremony in July this year.

Councillor Pete Lowe, leader of the council, said: “There are so many talented writers at our schools and this competition gives them the opportunity to be really creative and showcase their skills.

“Entries can include newspaper reports, discussions, poems or any kind of creative writing. I’m looking forward to seeing some of the work they produce later this year.”

Prizes for the winners will include certificates, trophies and vouchers, from local businesses.

All entries should be submitted to the literacy office at Saltwells EDC, Bowling Green Road, Netherton, DY2 9LY, by June 12.