A BUDDING script writer has scooped the second prize in a national writing competition.

Claire Worthington’s murder mystery story set in ancient Rome took the runner-up spot in the 14 plus age category of the national Golden Sponge-stick competition.

The Blackburn College student, who is studying A-levels in classics, history, English literature and film studies, entered her essay Omen of the Crows.

As the murder unfolds in Omen of the Crows it becomes clear that the Roman man committed suicide after he discovered he would be taken by Roman soldiers for a crime he had not committed.

Claire said: “I love writing — I’ve been writing since I was young.

“I heard about the competition from the classics teacher at the college who encouraged me to enter. I’m really pleased I won out of all the entries they must have received.

“I now want to study an English degree at University Centre at Blackburn College in hopes of becoming a script writer one day.”

The competition is organised by Burgess Hill School for Girls and attracted a record number entries this year, including entries from international students.