Fiction Writing Competition

Sunday, 21 August 2011 16:39

In conjunction with the opening of the HUB on Friday 16 September 2011, you are invited to write a story inspired by the following:

During the refurbishment of the hub, part of the floor was dug up and underneath, a small plastic headstone was discovered with a skull and R.I.P. engraved on it. Also, layers of plaster from the walls were removed, and stabbed solidly into the brickwork were two knives.

How did these objects get there? and Why? and by Whom?

You can include one item, or both, but the winner will be judged on originality as well as writing skill. The viewpoint can be the victim, a criminal, a detective, a reporter – whoever you wish, but only one viewpoint in the story please. Be creative! Be imaginative!

There are three age categories: 7-12, 13 -17, and 18 and over

Judges: 7-12 Jan Martin, founder of Natula Publishing: 13-17 Phil Vivian-English and Drama teacher: 18 and over, Connie Rothman – Head Librarian, Southbourne Library.

PRIZES will be awarded to 1st, 2nd ,and 3rd in each category, plus the winning stories will be published on the Southbourne Website.

The Rules

• There is no entry form. There is no fee.
• LENGTH – age 7-17 500 words – age 18 or over 750 words
• Closing date is Monday 05 September at midnight.
• Entries to be posted/delivered to Southbourne Creative Hub 129-131 Belle Vue Road BH6 3EN or emailed to  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• There must be a separate cover sheet that must contain Title of Story, Name, Address, Email address or Telephone Number, Category entered and Wordcount.
• IMPORTANT – your name must not appear on the story itself.
• Pages, if more than one, must be numbered and bear the title of the story.
• Entries must be in English, typed and (to save the trees!) single line spacing is acceptable.
• Entries will not be returned by post but will be displayed at the HUB opening party and can be collected from there between 6 and 6.30 pm on Saturday 17 September.
• Winner will be announced at the Hub on Saturday 17 September around 15.00.
• One entry per person
• Shortlisted entries will be on display at the HUB opening party which is 5.30 – 7.30 Friday 16 September, and 2.00 – 6.00 Sat 17 September
• The judges reserve the right not to award a prize if there are insufficient entries or the standard is deemed too low.