TWO nine-year-olds have won the chance to become radio stars and send their poetry out across the airwaves.

Ashleigh Ward, of Feniscowles Primary School, Blackburn and Rebecca Lofthouse, of Holy Trinity Primary School, Darwen, were selected by Hoddlesden poet Pam McKee and her writing partner Norman Warwick.

They ran the government-backed initiative 'Chatterboxes,' which aims to encourage a love of literature in children. Pam and Norman, known as 'Just Poets,' took sessions for nine to 12-year-olds at Blackburn Central Library. They asked children to submit original poetry and promised that the best could be performed on BBC Radio Lancashire.

Ashleigh will read 'The Fair,' while Rebecca will read 'Chatterboxes.'

Pam said: "The scheme is an excellent initiative and Norm and I were pleasantly surprised by the technical knowledge the young people already had acquired.

"More importantly, we were delighted by the enthusiasm they showed for literature. We feel that speaks well of all teachers, parents and library staff involved in the organisation of these events."

The readings will take place on Tuesday, April 30 at 10.15am.