CHILDREN'S Hospice South West is on the look out for new literary talent and encouraging young writers to put pen to paper for a story writing competition.

Children up to 12 years old, with an interest in creative writing, can enter the competition by writing a story of 250 words, starting with: 'What was that noise? I stopped at the entrance to the tunnel and listened carefully again. It was dark and I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing on end . . .'

The winner of the writing competition will have their story published in the Times.

Anyone who may need inspiration to help write their story, can join the Tavistock Lions Club's 'Spooky Sunday Stroll' on October 27, starting at Tavistock AFC at 4pm. As well as lots of spooky activities at the Scary Fair, everyone will be able to walk through Grenofen Tunnel, along the cycle route to Gem Bridge and see how many spooky bats and spiders can be found along the way. The 'Spooky Sunday Stroll' costs £2 for adults and £1 for children aged five to 16.

All competition entries should be in a sealed envelope with your name, age, address and phone number on the front of the envelope. Entries can be dropped in to the Children's Hospice shop in West Street until November 11.

The winner will be announced in the Times on November 21.