CHILDREN from Trafford can make their school’s Christmas wishes come true - by taking part in a national writing competition.

Sam Hay, author of the Undead Pets series, and cartridgesave.co.uk are inviting children aged between four and eleven to write a short story (maximum 200 words) or poem inspired by winter or Christmas, for a chance to win £1,500 for their school.

The Write Christmas competition, back for its third consecutive year, will select the top 50 entries from across the UK to be published in a special free to download e-book, to be released in December 2016.

In addition, one overall winner will receive a £1,500 grant for their school to spend on books or writing equipment. Two runners up will each secure a £250 each for their schools.

Both the overall winner and the runners up will also get a stocking packed full of festive treats worth £50 for themselves.

The stories or poems will be judged by Sam Hay and a representative from cartridgesave.co.uk.

Children, parents and teachers can get hints and tips from Sam Hay, plus full details of how to enter at www.cartridgesave.co.uk/printwhatmatters/write-christmas.

Closing date for entries is December 5.