An estate agency in Norfolk has persuaded TV, radio and television star Sir Stephen Fry (main image) to support the firm’s Christmas charity campaign.

Mark Lock (pictured), the director of Russen & Turner based in King’s Lynn, tells The Neg that Fry, who has a home locally in a village outside the town, is to read out the winning yarn from the firm’s Children’s Christmas Story Competition on local radio.

The competition challenges local children under the age of 11 to write a Christmas story in fewer than 500 words.

It first took place five years ago when Russen & Turner initially rewarded the winner with a £50 voucher, a bundle of books, and a collection of books for their school.

Snowballed

“Since then, the competition has snowballed  – pun very much intended – attracting more entries, bigger prizes, and support from some truly wonderful local businesses,” says Lock.

“Over the past couple of years, the winning stories have even been read out on Christmas morning by Santa himself on local radio, a magical touch that always brings a smile.

“But this year, things have gone to an entirely new level. Alongside a generous donation of £150 worth of books for the winner and £500 worth for their school from a local book publisher, we now have Sir Stephen Fry reading the winning tale.”

Lock says he secured the star’s participation after writing him a letter – not an email – and heard back from his PA saying he thought the competition a wonderful idea, and praising the use of Royal Mail.

“We’re all absolutely thrilled – not just because of Stephen’s involvement, but because this competition really captures the spirit of Christmas: creativity, community, and a little bit of magic,” adds Lock.