CHILDREN are being invited to pen a poem about Selby Abbey as part of the Selby Children’s Literature Festival.

The festival, which will run from March 26 to 30, will be kick-started with a poetry contest to mark the abbey's 950th anniversary.

Schoolwithin the Selby District will be invited to encourage their pupils age 7-14 to take part and the winner will be announced at Selby Abbey on families and communities day, March 30.

They will be awarded a special commemorative gift, a signed book donated by David Walliams, and a selection of poems is set to be published in a special commemorative poetry book and exhibited in the Abbey.

Local author, poet, voice artist and festival director Christina Gabbitas said: "We are hoping that the poetry initiative will help launch, build up momentum and educate children about Selby Abbey and it’s wonderful history.

"Actress Jenny Agutter and musician Michael Bradley are just two of our ambassadors and hugely supportive in encouraging children’s literature. "David Walliams replied to my letter and has given huge praise for the projects. I want to make literature festivals more accessible for children and families."

Application forms will be available in Selby Library and the abbey, and by going to www.selbycrf.com.