The Sunderland Echo is searching for the most promising young reporter on Wearside.

The newspaper has launched a competition for budding journalists, with the winner receiving a host of prizes which could help them on their way to a career in the newsroom.

Youngsters are being invited to send in their news stories about what is important to them, and the winning article will be published in the Echo.

The winner will also be invited to the Echo's newsroom to get a closer look at how the paper is put together each day, as well as scooping a personal computer and a trophy for themselves, and a year's subscription to the Echo for their parents or guardian.

Articles can be about anything at all, although the paper is especially looking for stories with a strong community angle.

Entries will be judged on their newsworthiness, and must be well-written to grab the reader's attention.

The writing contest, which is open to children aged between 12 and 16, is part of the Echo's celebration of Local Newspaper Week, which runs until May 9.

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail pastill@nep.co.uk