West Norfolk Deaf Association’s 'Silver Stories From No8' is a collection of 32 stories from writers of all ages who were awarded a place in the book by author and editor Daisy Line.

Elodie - a Year 7 student - was one of the writers whose 500-word story was chosen to feature in the anthology.

“I have been writing stories for as long as I could write. As a child, I had a dream of publishing my work before I turned 18 - and I have. But my next goal is to have my own book published,” she said.

She added: “The editing was good for me too because it showed me ways I could improve my stories. Also, editor Daisy was very nice."

The book featuring Elodie's story was launched on Sunday 24 September at the end of the inaugural Downham Market WordFest which was organised by the charity and saw a range of events on a words-theme.

Sarah Cox, manager of No8 The Old Book Shop in Downham Market, part of WNDA, created the week-long festival on the theme of books and words, including meet the author events and a bookish quiz.

Sarah, who is also head of children’s services at the charity, said the week had been a terrific success with well-attended events each day. The headliner was Sunday Times Bestselling author Heidi Swain who hosted a meet the author event at Downham Town Hall on Saturday 23 September.

Aside from meeting authors and taking part in the quiz, there were also themed events including Lady Chillers for a Love of Words evening, with Downham Market Arts, along with a special sensory storytime for younger visitors.

There are always a mixture of events at No8 The Old Book Shop during the summer holidays, but the week-long WordFest was the first time a writing competition was held during last summer.

WNDA is based in King’s Lynn and has been helping members of the Deaf community and those with acquired hearing loss for 25 years. It offers a range of support services and more information can be found at wnda.org.uk