Judges to sift through dozens of entries to children’s writing challenge

Judging to decide the winners of a new creative writing story challenge for children in East Cambridgeshire will begin tomorrow (Wednesday).

Children’s writers Pippa Goodhart and Julian Sedgwick will come together at Ely’s Lamb Hotel to begin the process of judging entries to the inaugural Ely 501 competition.

More than 70 entries were received in a competition launched by Burrows Bookshop and Mr Simms Ely, with the winners set to be revealed at a special ceremony on July 4 during the Isle of Ely Arts Festival.

Mr Sedgwick said: “I’m not only impressed by the number of entries but also by the consistently interesting and lively stories. There have been some lovely ideas, neat plot twists and great description.”

Many of the entries are due to be published in a specially commissioned book, its front cover designed by illustrator Debbie Bellaby, which will be presented to the winners during July’s event, and available to the public as well.

There will also be the opportunity to hear some of the stories read aloud for the very first time.

Annabel Reddick, from Burrows Bookshop, has watched the competition grow over the last few months.

She said: “Ely 501 has proved that creative writing amongst our children is alive and bursting in this mysterious part of the country. We’re already thinking about next year’s event. Ely 501 is here to stay.”