writing competition


ARE YOU
INSPIRED BY
CORNWALL?

There’s a story in all of us.
We’re looking for original writing inspired by Cornwall,
whether thats it’s people, landscape, history, memories
or simply life in the county.

About the Competition

Perhaps Cornwall has given you a story. A memory. A Character. A place you cant stop thinking about.

Whether your inspiration comes from its people, landscape, history, events, buildings, memories or simply life here, we’d love to read what you’ve written.

writing compeition

What inspires you?

Landscape


History


Places


Memories


People


Life in Cornwall


The Books That found us

The Gurning Bay Mystery by Bernard Bale

The fictional town of Gurning Bay draws inspiration from traditional British seaside resorts, with Newquay among the places that helped shape its setting. Bernard Bale brings a distinctly coastal atmosphere to this mystery, where a familiar seaside environment provides the backdrop for an intriguing fictional tale.

Proper Cornish Childhood by Michael J. Darracott

Growing up around Newlyn, Trereife and Mousehole, Michael J. Darracott recalls the people, places and everyday adventures of his younger years. Through a collection of personal memories, he brings to life a Cornwall of simpler times, full of humour, character and the kind of childhood experiences that stay with us forever.

The Strange Cases of Elias Finch by Marius Creed

Drawing on Cornwall’s rich traditions of folklore, ancient beliefs and strange places, Marius Creed introduces readers to a world of mystery and unsettling histories. With Cornwall providing an atmospheric backdrop, The Strange Cases of Elias Finch promises an intriguing journey into the county’s more mysterious side.

Billy Whippet by Chris Cooper

When beloved whippet Billy becomes desperately ill, his owner faces the possibility of losing his treasured companion. Told through heartfelt words and beautiful illustrations, Billy Whippet celebrates the remarkable bond between a man and his dog. A moving little book that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved an animal.

Closing Date

The competition will run until September 2027, but you don’t have to wait until then. Stand-out entries may be selected and published in THE Cornish LOCAL Magazine throughout the competition.

open to All

You don’t need to be a professional writer or have been published before. Whether you’re an experienced author or putting your story on paper for the first time, everyone is welcome to enter.

word Limit

Your entry can be anything up to 2,000 words. It doesn’t have to reach the limit — sometimes the best stories are the ones that say exactly what they need to.

Free
Entry

We want this competition to be about discovering great writing and giving people the opportunity to share the stories Cornwall has inspired. Entering is completely free.

The
Winner

The winning entry will be published in THE Cornish LOCAL Magazine, and the winner will also receive a Cornish Local goody bag packed with a selection of Cornish treats and surprises.

ready to share your story?

Enter the competition

Entries will close in September 2027!

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