A SOMERSET based charity is celebrating after a productive summer.

The Jemima Layzell Trust has launched its first ever creative writing competition in June.

More than 200 short stories on the theme of "When I grow up", were received from youngsters aged five to 16.

A team of talented and dedicated judges managed the difficult job of whittling down the entries to a final six.

These were then judged by the charity's patron, and acclaimed award-winning author, Michael Morpurgo.

The two lucky winners, Willow Oatley, 14, and Ava Leach, six, were crowned the winners.

They both received a limited edition signed copy of War Horse from Michael Morpurgo.

They will also see their winning piece published in Somerset's leading literary magazine, The Lamp.

The four runners up, Eloise Bennigsen, Billy Hemmings, Hannah Eke and Kate Jackson each received a book token kindly provided by the Yeovil Literary Group.

Sophy Layzell, said: “Writing, especially creative writing, was something that Jemima was passionate about, and we have been delighted with the response we have received in our first year of launching this competition.

"We are honoured and thrilled to have Michael Morpurgo as our patron.

"It would also not have been possible without the team of dedicated judges and great support from our sponsors, the Yeovil Community Arts Association, W Coombes & Sons Builders and South Somerset District Council.

"This competition has not only raised the profile of the Jemima Layzell Trust but also the joy and benefits that children and adults can receive from the art of writing and expression. It is something solid for us to build on for next year”.

The Jemima Layzell Trust was founded in late 2013 following the tragic death of Taunton Schoolgirl, Jemima Layzell.

Jemima died from a brain aneurysm.

The trust aims to raise awareness and provide support to survivors and families affected by brain injuries, such as aneurysms, and the devastating legacy they often leave behind. They also strongly promote organ donation with Jemima saving eight lives following her untimely death.

They have made to recent donations including the purchase of a £9,000 cooling blanket to the PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit) at Bristol Children's Hospital and a sponsorship payment via the British Institute for Brain Injured Children (BIBIC) to a young boy named Ethan who faces the lifetime challenge of brain injury following a stroke suffered before birth.

The trust has pledged up to £20,000 of support to young Ethan, within BIBIC, until he reaches adulthood.

The trust has also been awarded full Registered Charity Status.

For more information, visit jemimalayzell.com