Skies are gunmetal and the rain is Biblical. In parts of the UK it’s rained for forty days with significant flooding across the country. So, for many of us fair weather writers, it’s difficult to drum up inspiration. Three years ago, Farhana Shaikh, our judge then, came up with this simple but ‘spot on’ advice:

“Write what you love, and write with abandon for yourself first. Put it away in a drawer for some time so you can get some distance between you and the words. Then and only once you’ve done this, seek out people who can help you to refine what you’ve written, offer critical feedback so you can polish the work before sending it in. It’s amazing what happens when you re-work a piece with fresh eyes.”

The 2026 Award is open and will close on Monday, April 27th. Stories on any theme or genre are welcome but must not exceed 2.200 words (there is no minimum length) .

So, write what you love and good luck!