My York News, the Evening Press website where YOU write the news, today launches a citizens' journalism competition that could get you into print for the first time.

And if that doesn't lift you high enough, we've teamed up with Virgin Balloon Flights to offer our lucky winner and a friend an unforgettable hot air balloon flight.

All you have to do to win this amazing prize is to email or text us a genuine story and/or photograph that is all your own work.

You don't have to be Charlotte Bronte or Charles Dickens - just tell us a story, long or short, or send us a picture, that makes us laugh, cry or generally sit up and take notice.

All legal, decent and honest contributions will be posted on the My York News website, www.myyorknews.com, and at the editor's discretion may even be published in the Evening Press; so this is an excellent op-portunity to get into print.

The outstanding entry will also scoop a magical prize, experienc-ing the dizzy heights of hot air balloon rides in the UK with Virgin Balloon Flights.

Virgin will launch you into the majestic world of hot air balloon rides to experience the sheer joy of the oldest and most romantic form of aviation in the world. The incredible feeling of time suspended as the world drifts quietly below is one you will never forget.

With the nearest launch site at York Racecourse, you will be able to see this beautiful city and its surrounding countryside from a different angle. York Minster, the Bar Walls, and Clifford's Tower could all be seen in just one view!

Or you might find yourself drifting serenely over the nearby North York Moors or the lovely Yorkshire Wolds as you watch a constantly changing procession of heather moors, rolling hills, picturesque country towns and historic houses disappear beneath you. You may even be able to pick out your house, or snoop into the back gardens of those around you!

Flights, which last for an hour, are followed by a Champagne celebration and presentation of commemorative certificates that have been signed by Sir Richard Branson.

As well as York, there are 100 other locations nationwide that you will be able to take your flight from, so if you want to fly high with Virgin this Spring and have an experience of a life-time then all you have to do to win this amazing prize is to email or text us a story and/or photograph.

Email or text your entries to the My York News/Virgin Balloon competition to stories@myyorknews.com or photos@myyorknews.com

Send mobile phone pictures and text messages to our My York News line on 07814 510 241.

Entries must be received no later than Feb 16, 2006. Virgin Bal-loon Flights Silver Voucher Terms and Conditions apply which are available upon pur-chase or upon request by calling 0870 444 2768. Passengers must be 4ft 6in in height. Flights are subject to availability. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. This offer is open to Evening Press readers and staff only. Usual York and County Press rules apply. The editor's decision is final.

Updated: 15:26 Wednesday, February 01, 2006