From over 1500 entries, 8 top winners were selected in a Creative Writing Competition that one teacher, Simone Goward from Greenfields Primary School, describes as having “had a remarkable impact on so many children with regard to a desire to write.”

Dame Jacqueline Wilson led the prize giving ceremony at a public event in The Square, Shrewsbury on Saturday 4 May.  It was testament to the quality and enthusiasm of the entries that drew such support from such a leading light of children’s literature.

The eight top winning stories have been narrated by presenters, newsreaders and reporters from BBC Radio Shropshire and produced as audio files.  These stories can now be listened to and shared with the wider public via the Shrewsbury Bookfest website.  Truly, these brilliant young writers can now call themselves published authors.

FIRST PLACE

Trafficking Tiger by Sam Foster (Year 6) from Whixall Primary School

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Mark Elliott – BBC Radio Shropshire

SECOND PLACE

Never Say Never by Josie Wilson (aged 10) from Rushbury C/E Primary School

THIRD PLACE

Bully by Montana Malin (Year 6) from St Leonard’s C/E Primary School, Bridgnorth

Judges’ Comment: “A story reflecting the effect of bullies on a person’s life and how they overcame them. Sustained writing throughout.”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Carlie Swain – BBC Radio Shropshire

FOURTH PLACE

Odd Things Have Happened by Evan MacDonald (Year 2) from St Winefride’s Convent School, Shrewsbury

Judges’ Comment:  “An amusing story starring Evan himself! Who is teleported to London. Great humour throughout!”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Sean Fogarty – BBC Radio Shropshire

HIGHLY COMMENDED

The Same Old Story by Oliver Smith (Year 6) from Castlefield’s C/E Primary School, Bridgnorth

Judges’ Comment: “Bryce becomes famous as he confronts crime in Norwich. An effective story, original and exciting.”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Johnty O’Donnell – BBC Radio Shropshire

HIGHLY COMMENDED

The Sunflower of Life by Weronika Woszczyna (Year 3/4) from Mount Pleasant Junior School, Shrewsbury

Judges’ Comment:  “A magical story, illustrated beautifully and carefully written with wonderful characters and descriptions.”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Genevieve Tudor – BBC Radio Shropshire

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Leoppy Man by Omari Thomas (Year 1) from Gobowen Primary School

Judges’ Comment: “A wonderful story about Leoppy Man and his adventures. Beautifully illustrated”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Adam Green – BBC Radio Shropshire

“Omari is now working on a “season” of Leoppy Man short stories at home…. Receiving recognition for his story has really encouraged him to practice his writing and spelling more, so thank you.  I hope you continue to receive adequate funding as these types of competitions are brilliant for sparking the imagination of children.”  Jayde Joyce, parent of Omari

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Tilly and the Objects by Mia Gardner (Year 3/4) from Radbrook Primary School

Judges’ Comment:  “An amazing story of the effect of one girl on everyday objects. Full of suspense and ends on a cliffhanger!.”

Click on the image to listen to the story

Narrated by Tracey Higgins – BBC Radio Shropshire