Students at two Archdiocese of Liverpool High Schools have been recognised in the Catholic Union of Great Britain’s Young Writers Award.

The first prize was won by Olivia from St Peter’s Catholic High School in Wigan, while Ella from Holy Cross Catholic High School in Chorley scooped third prize.

The theme for this year was: The Church’s Sacrament of Forgiveness: Why We Go to Confession.

Students were challenged to write an essay which needed to include specific references to Scripture, including Christ giving authority to His Apostles to forgive sins in His name, to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and to relevant Papal documents, including Pope St John Paul’s Reconciliato et Paenitenia (1984).

Olivia from St Peter’s High School said of her achievement: “I feel incredibly happy and honoured to have been chosen for the Catholic Young Writers Award.

“There were so many talented young writers who took part, so I feel very proud to accept this award and I enjoyed taking part in putting my ideas into writing.

“I’d also like to say a very well done to everyone who entered, because having the courage to share your ideas is something to be proud of, whether you won or not.

“I am really thankful for this opportunity and truly excited to see where this takes me in the future.

“I am happy my faith and passion in my writing on why reconciliation matters, showed how deep my love is for God and those around me.”

Reacting to her prize, Ella from Holy Cross, added: "I am extremely grateful to have won third place and I really enjoyed entering.

“I am delighted to have been recognised for it."

Ms Devlin, Head of RE at Holy Cross, added: "We are extremely proud of Ella for her third place at the Catholic Young Writers Competition, and of our runners up Mara-Louise and Declan. It is a testimony to their hard work and dedication in Religious Education."

Director of Education Joan McCarthy also added: “It is great to have two students in our schools recognised for their writing talents.

“We pass on our congratulations to Olivia and Ella for their achievements and to all of the students who took the time to submit their entries.”