A popular short story competition is back for another year with a brand new theme - and celebrity readers.
Now in its 17th year and 11th in partnership with Sight for Wight, the Isle of Wight contest was founded by crime writing duo and Sight for Wight patrons R C Bridgestock.
JD Viette, chief executive of Sight for Wight, said: "This is such a great project, and one that feels especially fitting during the National Year of Reading.
"Last year’s competition was fantastic, and it showed just how much creative talent we have here on the Isle of Wight.
"The Island is full of imagination, character and lived experience, and this competition gives people of all ages the chance to share that through story."
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Entries are open to everyone living on the Isle of Wight across four age categories: under eights, eight–11s, 12–17s, and 18-plus.
This year, the Edana Minghella Award will once again recognise a story that demonstrates strength, depth, emotion, wellbeing, and creativity.
Chris Cane, competition organiser, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for budding Island writers to become published authors and win some great prizes.
"This year’s theme has been inspired by Arreton Primary School.
"I asked Island schools whether they would like to suggest a theme for this year’s competition, and Arreton Primary came straight back with 'Love, Hope, Courage', which are the school’s values.
"I thought this would be an excellent theme for our authors to create some stunning stories."
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Each category winner will have their story read aloud by a celebrity, with this year’s lineup including Sooty and Sweep star Richard Cadell, singer Chesney Hawkes, and Hotel Inspector presenter Alex Polizzi.
Also reading are local radio presenters Stuart McGinley and Paul Topping.
The winning story in the eight to 11 category will be published in the County Press, in an annual tradition.
The competition closes on Friday, October 30, and the awards ceremony will be held on Friday, December 11, at the Riverside Centre in Newport.
Entry forms can be requested by emailing admin@iwsb.org.uk, or picked up from Waterstones on Newport High Street, Sight for Wight at Millbrooke House, or Dress for Less on Pyle Street.
