A DARWEN schoolgirl is following in the footsteps of JK Rowling and Roald Dahl by having her words immortalised in print.

Holly Thompson, 15, entered the Young Writers Grim Tales competition, which is aimed at 11 to 18-year-olds, and impressed the judges with her flair for creative prose.

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She will now see her short story published in a book called Grim Tales – Lancashire Legends, released on August 31.

The Year 11 pupil at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy penned a 100-word story entitled Because I Stayed that will send shivers down your spine.

Holly’s tale starts in foreboding fashion “The mansion stood on the hill, grim yet proud despite its years. The children of the village were always warned to stay away...” and ends with the spooky line “I am Ravenna Blackthorn and revenge is my game.”

The competition aims to “inspire pupils, let them develop and showcase their technical writing and creative skills, as well as have the opportunity to see themselves as published writers”.

Further instructions from the judges include: “We don’t mind if pupils are inspired by other famous stories. They could do a funny version of a fairytale or retell a myth or legend with a new twist, but it must be written in their own words.

“A mini saga must be a proper story. This can be a challenge in only 100 words, but make sure pupils’ sagas have a beginning, middle and an end. Are you up to the challenge?”

Each school which takes part receives a complimentary copy of the book.

Janet McCarthy, Learning Resource Centre Manager at DACA, said: “We are so proud of Holly’s achievement.

“I have been working closely with Holly and encouraging her writing as I think she has great potential and a natural writing talent.

“Congratulations Holly!”