A STUDENT is about to travel half-way around the world after winning a national competition.

Teenager David Gunn is one of 18 youngsters from across the country who won the chance to take part in a four-week expedition to Chile.

David, 18, and the other winners entered a writing competition run by the national charity Journey of a Lifetime Trust and will be setting off on their adventure next week.

David from Park End, Middlesbrough, works at the British Heart Foundation charity shop where he is studying for a NVQ Level two in retail.

He said: "I had to write a 200-word essay outlining the reasons why I would like to be selected. I really didn't think that I'd win a place so I am over the moon.