A MOTHER has spoken of her anger after she sent off money for a book -- featuring a poem written by her daughter -- which never arrived.

Jill Peters, aged 43, of Ullswater Close, Little Lever, was delighted when she received a letter saying her daughter nine-year-old Sophie had been a winner in a poetry competition she had entered at school.

She sent £12.99 to get a copy of the book direct from the company, but weeks later it has still not arrived.

Now the firm cannot be contacted on any of the telephone numbers or e-mails given to Mrs Peters and other mothers.

Mrs Peters said: "Sophie was so excited about her poem, which was about the Queen Mother, being printed.

"She's never won anything in her life and was over the moon.

"I jumped at the chance to buy a copy of the book. We are really disappointed about it. I sent off a cheque in good faith."

It is believed other parents at Sophie's school, Mytham Road Primary, have also not received copies of the book.

The company which ran the contest, Orange Publications, said the book, HM Queen Elizabeth: The Queen Mother, would be on sale on the high street for £17.99, but could be ordered direct from them for £9.99, plus postage and packing.

In its letter to parents, the firm based in Denton, Tameside, said it was a limited edition publication and it warned that demand could exceed supply when it went on general sale.

Orange Publications also pledged to donate a percentage of the money made from the sale of the book to charities, including the NSPCC.

Mytham Road Primary School, head teacher, Alison Chadderton, said she was aware of the problems parents were experiencing with the firm.

She said: "The parents of pupils who received letters about having their work printed are understandably upset."