A YOUNG country lover will collect a writing award at a top London venue next month.

Max Carrington, of Sladen Middle School, will travel with his mother and literacy teacher Rebecca Dunkley - to the Natural History Museum, to pick up his prize from schools minister David Miliband.

The 10-year-old Kidderminster pupil, who attends the Hurcott Road school, won "Most Persuasive Writer" title with his piece Town or Country, and beat more than 1,500 students in the regional heat of the "Write Here, Write Now" competition. The government scheme aims to promote creative writing.

He will also be featured in a compilation book to be published by Hodder and Stoughton Educational.

Max also entered the national prize of the contest, which could win his school book vouchers worth £1,250.

Head teacher Tom Revell said: "I think it's a tremendous idea to get the youngsters writing and everything that encourages that should be welcomed.

"I'm delighted for Max. His award is also a good accolade for the teachers of the school."