A YOUNG poet’s tribute to a restaurant he visited on holiday in Spain has been shortlisted for a national award.

Muhammed Amin’s ode to the eaterie – The Jewel of Albaicin – has been selected as an entry in this year’s Young Muslim Writers Awards.

The 12-year-old from Bolton is one of five chosen in the 11-to-14-years-old category.

He said: “I am learning Spanish and this poem was written during my visit to Granada earlier this year.

“I wrote the poem as a tribute to the best restaurant in Granada.

“I really enjoy writing because it helps me express my opinions. I love poetry because it can make someone smile, laugh or cry.

“I was thrilled to learn that my poem was shortlisted. I was jumping for joy for three days."

The charity Muslim Hands will announce the winners at the end of the month, at Senate House in London on November 30.

Forty-five poems, stories, and articles have been shortlisted across nine categories.

The awards scheme aims to raise the standard of child literacy and creative writing.

Winners from the competition will have the opportunity to visit one of Muslim Hands’ international schools, where they will see the impact of providing disadvantaged children with access to education.

Syed Lakhte Hassanain, chairman of Muslim Hands, said: “Once again the quality of entries in this year’s Young Muslim Writers Awards has been outstanding.

"The submissions reflect the inspiring writing skills these children have developed, and it is great to be able to celebrate the diversity that each candidate brings with them.

"We are proud that the Young Muslim Writers Awards is now in its ninth year and that we can provide a platform to continue the growth of these young writers.”