Visible on the Dawlish skyline from far away, the WaveWalker has been a talking point among residents and visitors alike.

The huge, imposing machine, which moves sideways across the sea bed on its two sets of four legs, has been brought in by Network Rail to build part of the new tidal defences.

And now it's the focus of a creative writing competition for children and young teenagers, who're being challenged to weave a story of up to 500 words about its activities.

Who can enter the competition?

The competition, run by Dawlish Town Council and the local library, is open to those aged from five to 16, with six age group categories.

The prizes will include new books from the library and book tokens, and it's hoped that the winning entries will be displayed Dawlish Library and the Manor House, as well as online.

Entries, which can include drawings, should be sent by an adult (parent, guardian or teacher) with their contact details to [email protected], or posted to Dawlish Town Council at the Manor House or Dawlish Library.

The entries will be judged by the Mayor of Dawlish, Alison Foden, and the Dawlish librarian, Diane Flavin, who will pick out the most original, creative and enjoyable pieces of writing.

For full details of the rules, visit the Town Council's website. If you have any questions, email them to to [email protected]