A TOP children’s author is launching a wide competition encouraging children in the Cotswolds to pen a festive story for inclusion in a winter inspired book.

Sam Hay, author of the Undead Pets series of books, has partnered with cartridgesave.co.uk to stage the competition, which is open to children aged between 4 and 11

Sam in inviting children to write a short story [less than 200 words] or poem inspired by winter or Christmas.

The very best 50 entries from across the UK will be published in a special free to download e-book, released in December 2015.

She said: “Writing books for children has given me the opportunity to meet and talk to many young people and I’m always amazed and impressed by the stories they come up with.

“The season is a magical time and has so much potential for storytelling. I can’t wait to read the entries.

“I’m passionate about encouraging children to read and write more. Harnessing the power of the imagination is a brilliant way of enhancing a child’s development, as well as being lots of fun.”

Ian Cowley, managing director of cartridgesave.co.uk, said: “We like to encourage creativity across all age groups and are right behind the idea of children using their imaginations to come up with magical Christmas stories.

“Having the best entries collated into a beautifully designed e-book also gives parents and children a lasting memory too.”

Thee overall winner will receive £1,500 for their school to spend on books or writing equipment, with two runners up prizes of £250, plus bag themselves a stocking packed with festive treats worth £50.

Stories or poems will be judged by top children’s author Sam Hay and a representative from cartridgesave.co.uk.

Children, parents and teachers can get hints and tips from Sam Hay, plus full details of how to enter at www.cartridgesave.co.uk/writechristmas.

Sam believes the competition is a great step towards unlocking children’s creativity.