Budding journalist Ben, currently in Year 7 at Cranleigh Prep, was shortlisted as one of the regional finalists of the Royal Mail Young Letter Writer Competition in January. His letter, written on the theme of ‘what is your dream job?’ was selected as one of the ten best entries received from across the South East region. Ben, aged 11, received another letter from the Royal Mail on Monday February 1, announcing that he is South East area winner. This is an amazing accomplishment, as the Royal Mail received and judged nearly 100,000 letters. As a regional finalist, Ben had already won £40 in vouchers and £40 for his school. Now, as an area winner, he is guaranteed £200 in vouchers and £200 for his school. Yesterday he was interviewed live from the Guildford studio by BBC Sussex & Surrey radio. Ben’s application, to become a Chief Sports Architect designing future sports’ stadiums, will now go forward once again to a panel of judges, including TV presenter, Helen Skelton, who will select the overall winners from the current 24 area winners. All prizes will then be awarded in early March. Headmaster, Michael Wilson, said: “We congratulate Ben on this outstanding achievement so far and wish him the very best of luck with the next stage, both in the competition and for his future career.” Report and picture contributed by Cranleigh Prep School.