A COMMUNITY organisation has launched an essay writing competition on where individuals would like the county to be in 2050.

The Honourable Company of Gloucestershire is offering young people between 16 and 18 years of age the chance to take part and £750 in prize money will be shared.

Henry Elwes, chairman of the trustees, said: "This is a great opportunity for young people to have an input into what their county will be like in 2050.

"The winners could join in top level discussion later."

Participants are invited, in 450 words, to say what needs to be done to make the county attractive in terms of job prospects, leisure, cultural activities, housing, sport or anything else.

The winner will get £100 and the two runners up £75 each, plus a prize of £500 for the school sending the most responses.

Contributions can be from individuals or from small groups of up to five working together.

Entries must not be over 450 words and the closing date is July 20 typed or in good handwriting.

If you are interested contact Sir Henry Elwes at The Dower House, Colesbourne Park, Cheltenham or email hwg@globalnet.co.uk