Youngsters have the opportunity to show off their imaginations and writing skills to celebrate a 900-year-old building.

With St Bees Priory celebrating the momentous birthday, the community is banding together to celebrate, encouraging children in particular to get involved.

And with St Bees village joining forces with St Bees School, a writing competition has been born.

Budding authors in Year 5-6 and 7-9 are being challenged to write a short story of about 500 or 900 words – with the subject being absolutely anything they like.

But the glory of writing the best story won't end with receiving the top spot, as a £50 Amazon voucher is also in it for the lucky and impressive winners.

Head of marketing and admissions at St Bees School, Ceara Hayden can't wait to read the wonderful tales, and said: "I am really looking forward to seeing what the children come up with – especially from the local area.

"There's a lot of creative young people and this is the perfect opportunity for them to get their ideas seen and heard.

"Creative freedom is important, and getting children to use their imaginations is a great way to explore their natural creativity."

She added, encouraging others to join in with the celebrations: "900 years is a huge landmark to reach, and it's definitely something that deserves a celebration.

"The Lake District is well known for its literary heroes, so what better way to encourage a new generation of aspiring writers than with a writing competition?"

Open to the whole of the UK, entries have already been flying in with limited time left to enter until the closing date of March 27.

The winners for both year categories announced will be announced after the Easter holidays on the St Bees School Facebook page.

Email your entry to story@stbeesschool.co.uk, or call 01946 828000 for more details.