BUDDING Worcestershire writers have won the chance to help children's author Roddy Brooks pen his next book.

Aidan Brown, Abi Fox and Maisie Leyland, all aged 11, were the winners of the Roddy Brooks short story competition.

The competition was part of the mythical maze summer reading challenge programme organised by Worcestershire County Council Libraries and Learning Service.

The winners were announced at a celebratory event hosted by National Trust Croome on November 23.

All three winners were presented with a collection of books and told of their opportunity to work with Roddy Brooks to write a book inspired by stories and the history of Croome Park.

Councillor Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member for communities and localism, presented certificates to all of the shortlisted entrants and prizes to the winners.

She said: "It was such a pleasure to be involved in this event. To recognise and celebrate the children's talents is so important, and it will be really interesting to read the book they create with Roddy Brooks.

"National Trust Croome were great hosts and it's been fantastic to work in partnership with them for the summer reading challenge."