Budding writers invited to bring woolly tales to life for competition
Northumberland residents who want to try something creative are among those being invited to enter a competition that could see their very own children’s story brought to life in print.
Maximize Education, which provides educational support for learners from pre-school to undergraduate level and adults across the county, is sponsoring a writing competition as part of Morpeth Book Festival 2027.
Open to all UK residents, the competition invites aspiring adult authors to submit an original 500-word story inspired by wool, wool crafts and the humble yarn doll.
The winning entry will be illustrated and published, with copies distributed to schools and libraries across the North East to inspire young readers.
The finished book will be launched at the next Morpeth Book Festival on April 10 and 11, 2027, giving the successful writer the exciting opportunity to see their work celebrated at the literary event.
Entries can be written in prose or verse and must be suitable for children aged five to eight.
Stories must feature a yarn doll as the main character, with wool or wool-work woven into the narrative.
Christine Jamieson, chief executive of Maximize Education that is based at Loansdean in Morpeth, said: “Entering your imaginative story about a yarn doll into the competition is a fantastic opportunity to share your creativity with young readers.
“This is an opportunity for adults to write a children’s story book. We’re looking forward to seeing the wonderful ideas people come up with and hope the competition will inspire writers of all ages to have a go.
“Stories can capture children’s imaginations, help them explore the world around them and support their learning. It’s exciting to think that the winning story could go on to be enjoyed by children in schools and libraries across the North East for years to come.”
Submissions will be judged on creativity, suitability for the intended age group, educational value and how effectively they reflect the competition theme.
Entrants should submit their 500-word story by email to [email protected] and include ‘Writing competition:’ – as well as their name and telephone number – in the subject line.
Submissions will be acknowledged on receipt.