PUPILS at Ellesmere Primary School showed off their story-writing skills as they were finalists in a literary competition.

The competition which took place at Waterstones in Chester recently, was open to all North West Academies Trust (NWAT) primary schools.

Their 500-word tales were told by Chester town crier, David Mitchell who helped judge the finalists along with a panel of trustees.

The short story-writing competition is for children between the ages of five and 13.

Every child who took part has been entered into the BBC 500 words competition which will be broadcasted live from Windsor Castle on Friday, June 14 on BBC Radio 2's breakfast show with Zoe Ball.

Judges spoke highly of the tales and described them as quirky, humorous and moving.

Steve Docking, CEO of NWAT, said: "We celebrate hard work and achievement and this competition showcased everything that is good about our schools and why we are so proud of our children.

"More than one of the judges were moved to tears by the stories and the depth of creativity and imagination across the board is just brilliant.”

Mr Mitchell, who was a primary school teacher for 16 years, said: "Story writing is very challenging for children, particularly finishing with a good ending, but they managed to keep me guessing.

"I was particularly impressed with the variety.

"Every story was completely unique and I genuinely enjoyed reading them."