Aspiring young writers from the region are being encouraged to enter a competition launched by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The Young Crime Writers' Competition 2012 is open to anyone living in Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire or Bristol, who was born on or after 1st September 1993. Entries must be handed in to local libraries by 1st March.

The maximum story length is 1,000 words and there is no minimum length. The theme of the story is crime or thriller of any kind.

The judging panel includes thriller writers C.J. Carver and Tim Weaver, who both live in Bath, and Sam Holliday, Editor of the Bath Chronicle which is sponsoring the competition.

Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "This is a great opportunity for any budding young writers to seek inspiration from Bath & North East Somerset Council's local libraries and create their own engaging masterpieces of storytelling. Last year's competition produced some top class entries and I'm sure the judging panel will be in for a treat again this year as our talented youngsters get their creative juices flowing."

The overall winner will receive a trophy, sponsored by the Bath Chronicle, and three thriller books selected by the judging panel; with book prizes for second and third too. There will also be five Highly Commended awards, all of which will receive a certificate.

Sam Holliday, Editor of the Bath Chronicle, said: "There are so many great storytellers in the Bath area and this is a wonderful opportunity to unearth some top class young writers. Thrillers are always an exciting read and we feel sure that there are plenty of great stories out there waiting to be told. I for one am thoroughly looking forward to reading them."

All eight short listed entries will be published Bath & North East Somerset Council's website. The eight winners will also be invited to an award ceremony on Monday 30 April 30 at Bath Central Library.

Posters and entry forms about the competition can be found at all local libraries. There is also a workbook guide to help budding young writers on their way – email june_wentland@bathnes.gov.uk for a digital copy.

For more information visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/librarynewsandevents.

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