The best young crime writers in Cumbria are being sought out in a national competition launched by the Crime Writers’ Association (CWA).

Organised by the CWA, which represents the interests of published crime writers, and library authorities nationwide the competition will appeal to writers aged up to 18 (born on or after September 1, 1991).

Stories should be submitted between January 18 and February 19 and the word limit is 1,000. They must be entered through participating libraries.

The entries will be judged by members of the CWA and local winners will be considered for the national prize to be announced during National Crime Fiction Week, which starts on June 14.

CWA Chair Margaret Murphy said: “'From Enid Blyton's Famous Five and Anthony Horowitz's Alex Rider series, right through to adult crime novels and thrillers, crime fiction is a vibrant and hugely popular genre. 

“The Young Crime Writers Competition gives budding young writers the unique opportunity to have their work read by professional authors - and have fun writing.”

Download the entry forms here. All entries must be handed in to your local library or emailed to libraries@cumbriacc.gov.uk