FOR those who fancy a creative challenge whilst confined at home to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, this Gloucestershire writing competition may be just the thing.

The Gloucestershire Writers’ Network runs an annual competition and they are inviting everyone to take part.

Supported by The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival, it is open to anyone living, working or studying in Gloucestershire (including South Gloucestershire).

A spokesman for the group said: "We're delighted to announce our 2020 competition on the theme of 'My World' and our fantastic judges: Sarah James/Leavesley for poetry and Tyler Keevil for prose.

"In this time challenging time, when many of us are facing financial uncertainty, we have decided to reduce our entry fees to: £2.50 per poem/prose piece; £4.50 two entries; £6.50 three entries."

First prize: £200 in each category

Runners up prizes: three runners up in each category will receive a book token

Prize-winners to read their work at The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival on 4th October 2020 and they will have their work published in the competition anthology.

Shortlisted entrants will also have the chance to have their work published.

If the festival is cancelled a prize-winners’ event will be held at a Cheltenham venue at an appropriate time instead.

Closing Date: Midnight, 12 July 2020

Find out more at gloswriters.org.uk/competition/