Young Cornish writers urged to enter competition

A Cornish charity is inviting young wordsmiths to apply for the the opportunity to access "career-changing" support.

Young and Talented Cornwall said its Creative Writing Award would offer one-to-one nurturing and advice from established Cornish authors.

It said it was looking for budding novelists, journalists, screenwriters, and poets aged between 16 and 23.

A cash award of up to £1,000 is also up for grabs, the charity said.

Young and Talented Cornwall offers financial support to help talented youngsters "achieve their dreams".

Applicants need to be a resident of Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly to enter.

Rebecca Pearce, from Porthtowan, is a previous winner and was matched with Cornwall-based author Cathy Rentzenbrink.

The 22-year-old said she would doubt herself and lacked confidence before winning the competition.

"I have something that validates me," she said.

"I can see myself as a professional writer and going on to explore my own publishing venture."

Tayfun Zaidi, a 21-year-old from Falmouth, who was matched with novelist Patrick Gale, said he used his grant on a research trip to Denmark for his next historical fantasy fiction novel.

He said: "Being part of the award has meant that I have someone from the industry, with huge amounts of experience, offering a new perspective on my writing.

"My mentor undertakes research trips when creating his own work and inspired me to do the same."

Young and Talented Cornwall, formally known as the Lord Lieutenant's Fund, said recipients would also benefit from a £150 book voucher to highlight the importance of good reading to the craft of writing.

Applications for the award can be made via the charity's website.

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