Write us an original story up to 750 words on any subject you like.

Write us an original story up to 750 words on any subject you like."

That's the challenge Honiton Writers Circle is setting all East Devon children between the ages five and 11 in its annual young writers' competition.

"Last year we had wonderful work from some budding young writers, so we know there is real talent out there," said John Carter, one of the competition organisers. "So we say to all you keen young writers, brush the dust of those imaginative ideas you have been storing up and show us what you can do; even if it's your first effort at writing a story have a go."

The entries will be judged by children's writer T M Alexander, author of the Tribe books. Sixty three schools are being asked to get involved, but any eligible boy or girl can enter. Several winners will be chosen all of who will receive a signed certificate, a gift token and one of the Tribe books, also signed.

.The competition is being supported by the Young Writers Charitable Trust. All entries have to be in by November 12 and winners will be informed and announced at the end of that month.

Stories should be sent with a title and a separate sheet showing your name, age, telephone number and address, (with parents'/teacher's consent) to John Carter, Smokey House, Yarcombe, Honiton, Devon EX149AD.