Beguiling and beautiful story.

The Journal's short story competition attracted entries from keen writers but also from some who have been hiding their light under a bushel.

"This is the first time I've attempted anything like this since I was at school," said 44-year-old David Moore who lives in Coxlodge, Gosforth, and works for the Inland Revenue at Longbenton.

"I think it was the opening sentence. I thought I could just picture that straight away and was sure I could do something with it."

Encouraged by partner Rosemary, David submitted his beguiling and beautifully written story.

David, who was born in Corbridge and went to Prudhoe High School, said: "I have dabbled in a bit of poetry in the past so I suppose I do have a creative side but this is the furthest I've ever taken the writing."