A TEENAGER who was inspired to write a crime story because his friends were entering a competition has won a place in the national final.

Connor Sterling, 13, from Darlington, won the NorthEast section of the National Crime Writers' Competition after penning his first story.

He will now go on to the national final which will be judged during National Crime Writing Week in June.

His story was about a New York detective on the heels of a serial killer called the Anarchist who, after a chase through Central Park, turns out to be his father.

Connor said: "I saw the competition and saw that my friends were writing an entry.

I just thought I could do better than them. I'm really proud of myself. I can't wait to go forward for the finals.

"If I want to get a career in writing, it will boost my standing."

The competition attracted more than 100 entries and was run with help from libraries across the area.

John Dean, regional competition co-ordinator, judged the entries with help from library staff. He said: "I have been thoroughly impressed by all the stories I have read."

Highly commended went to Kieron Ferrey, from Ferryhill. Also shortlisted were Rebecca Mott and Keira Mason, also from Ferryhill, Jennifer Robson, from Sacriston, and Kira Wayman, of Spennymoor.