Scripture Union recently announced the winner of its famous writing competition that resurrected after 60 years since the first initiative took place.

Young mum Hannah MacFarlane, part of a church plant in Oxford, has won the top prize - her story in print.

"I didn't learn about the competition until quite late and I really wanted to enter, but with a new-born baby to look after I wasn't sure I would get it finished in time," said MacFarlane, 26. "It was only when my husband encouraged me to do it that I set about getting it done!"

The Christian movement launched a competition in 1947 to find new writers of Christian fiction for children, which was won by Patricia St John, with her entry, The Tanglewoods' Secret.

The book has been a continual best-seller, having been translated into 40 different languages. 24 other novels followed.

This year's competition was open to people of all ages and writers, who were asked to produce a 20,000 to 30,000 word novel that helps 8 to 11-year-olds to 'live God's way' and helps them 'move on in their journey with Jesus'.

"The standard of entries was very high, but Hannah's definitely stood out as a piece of great writing with an engaging storyline and biblical integrity," said Alex Taylor, Scripture Union's Commissioning Editor for Children's and Youth Resources.

Hannah's winning entry is based on Exodus, exploring themes of being holy and trusting in God and his protection. As part of the competition prize, the book will be published by Scripture Union in the Xstream fiction range for 8-11s in September.