On a recent visit to Congleton Library I thought I’d pose as the Mayor. Chloe doesn’t look impressed!

A writing competition in Congleton? I’ll be the judge of that!

I am thrilled to announce that I will be on the judging panel for a writing competition that’s taking place in our town over the coming months. The competition will provide an opportunity for the children, and adults, of Congleton to show off their creative talents by writing a short story about the Mayor.

The competition is being run to celebrate 700 years of Mayoralty, so in 700 words or less, entrants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild as they write a story about the Mayor having some sort of adventure.

The story can be mythical, mystical, a thriller, a comedy, historic, present day or set in the future – whatever takes your fancy! The competition is split into three categories: primary school age, secondary school age and adults aged 16 and over. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in each category.

Entries will be judged on various factors such as originality, plot, characterisation and language.

Alongside me on the judging panel will be: Steven Lenton, the brilliant Congletonian illustrator of many well-known titles including the Shifty McGifty series; award-winning local poet John Lindley; and Congleton-born romantic novelist and friend of mine, Caroline James, whose latest novel The Best Boomerville Hotel came out this week.

The deadline for entries is April 16th and the prize giving will take place in Congleton Park on Triathlon Day, 22 April 2018.

You can pick up entry forms from Congleton Chronicle Office, Congleton Library and Congleton Tourist Information Centre.

Happy writing and good luck!