ASPIRING young storytellers are being urged to get their creative juices flowing for a new competition.

Somerset Council and SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, in collaboration with author Ben Pulletz, have launched a creative competition centred on the benefits of food recycling.

Entitled Luna and friends’ great food waste recycling journey, the competition invites children aged between seven and 16 to submit short stories boosting food waste recycling.

Prizes on offer include book vouchers and copies of Ben’s Luna Explores Somerset book, and the contest is open to youngsters who live in the Somerset Council area.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, executive member for transport and waste services at Somerset Council, said: “We are thrilled to launch this unique competition that not only encourages creativity but also raises awareness about the importance of recycling food waste.

“It’s a great opportunity for young minds to contribute to a greener future while showcasing their storytelling talents.”

Stories should be no more than 500 words long, on the theme of food waste recycling.

Lily Morton, senior community liaison manager at SUEZ, said: “We are looking forward to receiving the creative entries from the children of Somerset.

“Recycling is the best thing you can do with any unavoidable food waste and we want to encourage more residents to use their food waste recycling service.

“Getting the viewpoint of the younger generation on this subject will be really interesting to us and hopefully encourages people to start recycling more.”

Author Ben added: “A great story activity for children to explore their creativity this summer, with my character Luna the Globetrotter, this will hopefully get children engaged in recycling and encourage them to learn about this green action and protect the planet for the future.

“I am really looking forward to seeing the innovative take on the recycling world from our younger generation.”

Stories must be submitted by email to recycle@somerset.gov.uk by September 7, while handwritten or printed copies can also be dropped off at any Somerset library.

Entries should include the child’s name, age, and their parent or guardian’s email address or phone number and location.

For more information and full terms and conditions, visit www.somerset.gov.uk/FoodCampaign.