SCHOOLGIRL Natasha Harris has scooped a regional prize in the Explore Learning’s National Young Writers’ Award.

The eight-year-old, who attends Tregoze Primary School, received a trophy and a certificate for her 500-word piece, which featured a leopard and a mouse.

Vanessa Harris, Natasha’s mum, said: “It feels amazing for Natasha to win this award.

“She worked so hard on her piece and absolutely loves writing and illustrating.

“She thought it was a lovely surprise to receive the trophy and certificate.”

The competition, now in its sixth year, was judged by award winning illustrator and author of the Tom Gates series of books, Liz Pichon.

She said: “All the finalists’ stories were fantastic.

“I was so impressed at the incredibly high standard of writing. There were some amazing, creative, interesting and funny tales.”