A MID Devon woman has been selected to judge entries for the Chris Evans Breakfast Show's popular 500 Word Competition on BBC Radio 2.

Education liaison officer and former teacher Stephanie Diamond from Mid Devon is one of 4,000 volunteers from across the country who have been chosen to find the next mini Roald Dahl or J.K. Rowling.

Stephanie, who has worked for FCA for eight years, is judging the aged 5-9 category. She will be marking each story for its originality, plot, characterisation, language and enjoyment.

She said: “I am a keen writer and blogger myself, so I was thrilled to be selected. I'm thoroughly enjoying reading all of the children's work and some have really made me wonder where children get so much inspiration to write so creatively at such a young age.

“The 500 Word Competition is a wonderful way to encourage more children to put pen to paper.

“I have worked with children in foster care for 12 years now and in my day-to-day role I actively seek to give young people in care a voice and encourage story writing as an incredibly powerful tool for this.

“Story telling is a great way for young people to use imaginary characters to express their experiences and view of the world.”

Now in its fourth year, the 500 Word Competition appeals for children aged 13 and under to delve into their imaginations and compose an original work of fiction in no more than 500 words.

The lucky winners are awarded with Chris Evans' height in books as well as a stack of books for their school library.

The top 50 shortlisted entrants will be invited to attend the final at St James's Palace in London on May 25 2015.

Foster Care Associates operates 50 offices across the UK, servicing every region in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland and has 21 years of experience offering high quality and stable fostering placements.