Kirsty makes a splash with raindrop tale

KIRSTY McKinney has been named West Lothian's Young Writer of the Year 2011.

Kirsty's essay - The Journey of a Raindrop - scooped the top prize, which was presented by Provost Tom Kerr at a ceremony in the Howden Park Centre.

He congratulated Kirsty, a primary seven pupil at Simpson Primary School.

"Her story of a raindrop is very descriptive and imaginative," he said.

"I would also like to congratulate the winners of the other categories and indeed all of the young people who took the time to enter the competition."

Council leader Peter Johnston added: "The children all demonstrated remarkable writing talent and imagination. The variety of subjects covered and the many writing styles meant that the judges had a difficult task. The large number of entries reflects the great deal of hard work by everyone involved."

Hilda Gibson, from library and heritage Services, which organised the annual event, thanked everyone involved.

She said: "I continue to be inspired by our young people and the work they produce."