BUDDING writers turned out in force to show off their talents in a short story competition.

More than 400 people entered the annual Sid Chaplin Short Story competition making it the biggest turn out in its 16-year history.

Ed Turley of Wolsingham was hailed winner of the event hosted by Shildon Town Council.

Mr Turley, whose story was about an Irish family rallying round their grandmother, said that his success was down to his time with the Wear Valley Writers' Group.

He said: "I owe a lot to the Wear Valley Writers' Group and the support I have had from Wendy Robertson. She is very encouraging and supportive in whatever I write."

Runner-up in the adult section Eileen Jennison, of Bishop Auckland, is also a member of the Wear Valley Writers' Group.

Ms Jennison brought along her own fan club of ten and 11-year-olds, who she teaches English at Greenfield Arts and Community College. The youngsters also entered the competition.

Winner of the under-ten section Thomas Cowper, ten, of Shildon, impressed the judges and special praise was also given to Laura Brown, who won the under-15s section, and Stacey Dixon, 12. Stacey, who attends Bishop Barrington School in Bishop Auckland, won the under-12s title with her story that combined magic along with the Second World War.