NEWPORT'S Vectis Radio is running a free to enter competition for aspiring playwrights.

The community radio station is inviting people to write a short radio play of around 15 minutes in length, with winning entries recorded by actors when it is safe to do so and broadcast on Vectis Radio later in the year.

There are three Categories: under 12 years-old, 13 to 17 years and 18 years or over. The 15 minute rule applies to the two older categories, but is flexible for the under 12 group.

In addition to one winning play from each section being recorded in and broadcast from the Medina Way studio, there will be other prizes for notable entries.

The winner of the 18 years and over category will also receive a signed copy of R C Bridgestock's latest book Payback, featuring D.I. Charley Mann.

The deadline for submissions is Monday August 31 at 5pm. These should be sent via email to stories@vectisradio.fm.

All entries need to be radio and family friendly and must be original work that has not been published anywhere else.

Vectis Radio presenter and newsreader, Maggie Currie, said: “With people having some time to spare currently, this is an opportunity to get creative, in the literary sense.

"Vectis Radio had great success with its radio plays and soaps, and we would like to expand on that.

"I'm looking forward to reading the entries and hearing the plays on air — good luck!”