Young writers across West Norfolk are being encouraged to put down their screens, pick up a pen and let their imaginations run wild as the Russen & Turner Christmas Story Competition returns for its fifth year.
The annual competition, launched in 2021, invites children aged 11 and under to create their own Christmas story, with this year’s winning entry set to receive a very special treatment.
Sir Stephen Fry has once again agreed to read the winning story, which will be broadcast on Radio West Norfolk over Christmas.
The competition began with a simple aim: to encourage children to step away from phones and other technology and rediscover the enjoyment of creative writing.
Since then, it has grown considerably, with details now shared with schools across the local area and support from Radio West Norfolk and BookLife Publishing.
Mark Lock, Director of Russen & Turner, said: “The idea was actually very simple. In a world where even primary school children seem to spend half their lives glued to screens, I wanted to encourage them to put down their phones, pick up a pen and paper, and let their imaginations run wild.
“No screens, no technology, just good old-fashioned storytelling!”
Radio West Norfolk later became involved and now broadcasts the winning story, while BookLife Publishing has supported the competition by providing books for both the winning child and their school.
Last year brought another major addition when Sir Stephen Fry agreed to read the winning entry.
After the success of that collaboration, the actor, broadcaster and author has agreed to take part again this Christmas.
Mr Lock said: “For a child to write a story and then hear someone like Sir Stephen Fry bring their words to life on Christmas morning is something they’ll surely remember for the rest of their lives.
“It’s become something we’re incredibly proud of, not because it promotes Russen & Turner, but because it’s a lovely way of encouraging children to be creative, enjoy writing and perhaps discover a love of books along the way.”
There are also substantial prizes on offer.
The winning child will receive £150 worth of books and a £50 Amazon voucher, while their school will receive £500 worth of books courtesy of BookLife Publishing.
The competition is open to children aged 11 and under, with entries closing on Friday 11 December.
The winner will be announced on Wednesday 16 December, before their story is brought to life by Sir Stephen Fry for Radio West Norfolk.
Organisers are hoping even more children will take part this year and use the competition as an opportunity to create their own festive tale.
Entries can be submitted through Russen & Turner, with competition details also being circulated to local schools.