A TOP children’s writer has launched a nationwide competition to encourage children to pen a new festive classic for inclusion in a winter-themed book.

Sam Hay, author of the Undead Pets series, has partnered up with cartridgesave.co.uk to stage the competition, which is open to children aged between four and 11.

Children taking part are being asked to write a short story, which is no longer than 200 words, or a poem inspired by winter or Christmas.

The top 50 entries will be published in a special free-todownload e-book, which is set to be released in December, and one overall winner will receive £1,500 for their school to spend on books or writing equipment.

The two runners-up will also bag £250 and a stocking packed with festive treats worth £50.

Sam Hay said: “Writing books for children has given me the opportunity to meet and talk to many young people.”

Details on how to enter at www.cartridgesave.co.uk/writechristmas.