SCHOOLS across Keighley have taken part in what’s believed to be the largest children’s writing competition ever held in Yorkshire.

More than 100 primary and secondary schools from the region entered the contest, part of the inaugural Broughton Hall Children’s Literature Festival.

Around 800 stories were submitted for judging.

“Just about every school in Keighley took part and they’ve received complimentary tickets to the festival,” said ex-teacher Trevor Wilson, who devised the competition and is organising the festival – which runs from September 27 to 30.

Judging was carried by a panel led by Yvonne Lang, former head librarian at Ermysted’s Grammar School in Skipton, and winners will be announced at the festival.

Tribute has been paid to the standard of the winning entries in the contest, which was sponsored by Bradford Grammar School.

“They were of the highest quality – imaginative, creative and very mature in the use of descriptive language,” said Miss Lang.

“The variety and demonstration of such vivid imaginations has been a pleasure to see.

“I am really proud of how much writing talent exists amongst the young people of Yorkshire.

“I’ve read everything – from someone shrinking to discover a swimming pool full of lemonade, to naughty fairies being tamed by Little Mix!

“We have had horror, crime, fantasy and comedy as well as some lovely thoughtful pieces containing all sorts of moral messages such as the importance of friendship, accepting those who are different, protecting the planet, being grateful for what we have and even a tale about how we first domesticated the cat.

“It has been a real pleasure to take part and we have had some wonderful feedback from schools about their students’ enthusiasm for the project.”

Two-hundred winning entries will be published in a book and the overall winner will receive a supply of books plus a free visit to his or her school by an author.

Mr Wilson said he was looking forward to the unveiling of the winners at the festival.

“Every school that entered will have at least one chosen winner,” he added.

“As part of the prize, they will also be invited to attend one of our top author shows.

“The leading six stories will be read out by some of the top children’s authors in the country, before the overall winner – the Young Yorkshire Writer of the Year – is announced.”

Authors Clare Balding, Sir Chris Hoy, MG Leonard and GP Taylor will be among those attending the festival.

For further information, visit childrensliteraturefestival.org or contact Mr Wilson on trevor@caboodlebooks.co.uk, 01535 656015 ext 9855 or 07885 279519.