Shutterstock / Sam72©Fiction Ed Lucy answers questions around our Writing Bursary Competition.
Who Can Enter The Competition?
The competition is open to amateur writers based in the UK.
There are two categories – under 30, and over 30 years old – and three genres; comedy, romance and thriller.
The term ‘amateur writer’ includes anyone who has never had a short story published in a magazine and who does not make a living from writing fiction.
Are You Eligible?
Entries from self-published authors can be considered.
Having had poetry or letters published does not preclude you from entering this competition.
If in doubt about your eligibility, don’t worry – we’ll read your author bio.
Your cover sheet MUST specify your story’s genre and your age category, as well as full contact details.
What Does The Winner’s Prize Include?
One overall winner will receive a bursary of £10,000 to assist with their writing.
Their winning story will appear in a future issue of ‘The People’s Friend’.
The winner will also receive a ‘People’s Friend’ contract, and mentoring throughout the year from their assigned editor.
What Is Expected From The Winner?
As well as writing the winning short story, the winner will work with their assigned editor for twelve months to provide fiction content for the brand.
Who Is Providing The Prize?
The prize is funded in the main by the Olwen Richards Memorial Fund – a private fund with the express stipulation of supporting aspiring ‘People’s Friend’ authors.
What About Copyright?
For the purposes of this competition, copyright remains with the author at every stage.
Will There Be Opportunities For Existing Authors?
The first of this year’s writing opportunities for established authors will be announced soon.
For full terms and conditions of this competition, go to “The People’s Friend” 155 Bursary Competition Terms and Conditions page.
Have a question that wasn’t answered? Email Lucy at lcrichton@dcthomson.co.uk.
Lucy Crichton Better known as “Fiction Editor Lucy”, I am always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, I enjoy working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of “Friend” fiction!
