The Duchess of Cornwall supports BBC Radio 2's 500 Words competition

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The Duchess of Cornwall was at the Tower of London today to support BBC Radio 2's 500 Words competition which saw celebrities from David Suchet to comic John Bishop read out the winning entries.

Chris Evans introduces David Walliams to the stage to read a Gold winner's story
Chris Evans introduces David Walliams to the stage to read a Gold winner's story

She told the gathered young finalists, accompanied by a parent: "Today is all about your stories.

"I've read some of the brilliant ones that you have written this year, so I know that a rainbow of different ideas has stimulated your imaginations."

Last month, The Duchess joined the 500 Words judging panel as an honorary judge and helped pick the winners with authors Malorie Blackman and Francesca Simon, screenwriter Frank Cottrell Boyce, and author and actor Charlie Higson, with BBC Radio 2's Chris Evans as chairman.

Olly Murs performed at the 500 Words final live
Olly Murs performed at the 500 Words final live

The competition received a record 131,798 entries this year from young writers vying for the bronze, silver and gold prizes in the two age categories, five to nine years and 10 to 13.

Her Royal Highness added: "Wherever you find your inspiration, in the past, present or future, I'm thrilled you love writing. Your stories are brimming with ideas, and fizzing with energy, and hopefully encouraging others, who are listening today, to follow your example."

 

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