It was a very happy start to the new year for one of our pupils who was presented with his prizes after winning a writing competition.

Matthew Edwards, at Walpole Cross Keys Primary School, found out just before Christmas that his winning story would be read out by none other than Sir Stephen Fry, on Radio West Norfolk.

His story, Edwin’s Christmas Wish, introduces readers to a cheetah who lives in Africa and dreams of snow. Santa Claus heard all about his wish and helped to make it come true in the entry to the competition arranged by King’s Lynn estate agent Russen and Turner.

Children aged 11 or under were asked to create a special festive story in 500 words or less. The competition was also backed by Book Life Publications and Radio West Norfolk.

Seven-year-old Matthew said he was ‘really pleased’ to win and this week he received his prizes from Jessica Peek, of Russen and Turner this week. He won a £50 Amazon voucher, a signed copy of Sir Stephen Fry’s book Mythos, £150 of books and a further £500 of books for the school’s library.

“The books have come in really useful for us, especially as we are refreshing our library and continuing to develop our children’s love of reading,” said Assistant Headteacher Billy Overton.