Ian Rankin scholarship given to Cowdenbeath's Cameron Lyle

Among them was Cowdenbeath’s Cameron Lyle, who gained not just recognition but also £600 for penning ‘To Be Good’.

Sir Ian described it as “very different from anything I've read recently” and a “polished and convincing portrayal” of a character navigating life between cultures.

The Cardenden-born literary celebrity knows a thing or two about twists, having created the thrilling Rebus crime novels which were later developed into a popular television series.

Each year, Sir Ian takes the time to read and critique entries submitted by students from across a wide range of subject areas, providing feedback before attending the annual awards ceremony in person.

He presented the scholarships on his first visit to the new Dunfermline campus and said: “I’m delighted to be able to give emerging student writers at Fife College a helping hand through this scholarship.

“Every year I’m impressed by the imagination, originality and ambition on display, and this year’s entries were particularly strong, with something to admire and enjoy in every submission.”

Sir Ian went on to congratulate Cameron and all the prize recipients, adding that he’s looking forward to “seeing where their talent and creativity take them in the years ahead”.

Cameron, who is studying for an advanced certificate pathway to social science, said: “The scholarship has been a big privilege to be able to win. To have my work critiqued by Ian Rankin himself allows me to have reassurance of the quality of work I can produce.

“This will allow me to have more confidence in my writing ability and try new avenues I previously wouldn’t.

"The £600 reward will be incredibly impactful for me, helping to fund driving lessons and philosophical books that will allow me to expand potential topics further for my future career and writing.”

The other recipients were Shannon Simpson, from Dunfermline, and Shazia Rahaman, of Glenrothes.