New creative writing award launched to help budding Cornish writers reach their potential

Applications are now open for a brand-new creative writing award, giving budding young writers in Cornwall the chance to kick-start their careers and achieve their writing dreams.

The Young & Talented Cornwall Creative Writing Award, sponsored by Falmouth University and Seasalt Cornwall, aims to nurture aspiring wordsmiths and help them on their way to seeing their work in print, or performed on stage or screen. It has been designed with everyone from future poets and novelists to journalists and scriptwriters in mind.

Falmouth University is committed to supporting talent in Cornwall, providing it with the inspiration and practical assistance it needs to flourish.

Successful applicants will be matched with an established Cornwall-based writer for invaluable mentorship, expert advice and guidance. Award recipients will also benefit from £150 worth of books and will be given the opportunity to access a further cash award of up to £1,000 each, which can be used to develop a particular project or to fund much needed equipment.

The Award is the latest initiative of Young & Talented Cornwall, The Lord Lieutenant’s Fund which since 2005 has provided grants worth more than £300,00 to Cornwall’s next generation of superstars. The Fund helps young talents who otherwise lack the means to achieve their potential across a wide range of skill areas, from sport and performing arts to music and science. With the support of Falmouth University and Seasalt Cornwall, the Creative Writing Award is specifically dedicated to the written word and Cornwall’s brightest prospects in the field.

Some of Cornwall’s most esteemed creative talents are involved in the new award, including award-winning author Philip Marsden. The Falmouth-based writer, who has come on board as award curator, comments: “Writing careers start in many different ways, and the first steps are not easy. I like to think that throughout Cornwall are lurking any number of hopeful young writers, quietly reading and writing and wondering how to get going. The award is intended to give them a helping hand, putting them together with established authors to explore how best to nurture their particular interests and talents.

“I am much looking forward to reviewing the applications and to giving young hopefuls the opportunity to learn from some of Cornwall’s most talented writers.”

Paul Springer, Director of the School of Communication at Falmouth, adds: “Falmouth University is committed to supporting talent in Cornwall, providing it with the inspiration and practical assistance it needs to flourish.

"This is a county with a remarkable cultural and creative heritage, but with well documented economic challenges. We’re delighted to be a backer of this initiative, which we hope will encourage young and aspiring writers, who may see financial barriers to a future in writing, to see a way to grow and use their talents.”

Anybody aged between 16 and 23 years with a flair for writing can apply for the Young & Talented Cornwall Creative Writing Award. Applications are now open for the first round of awards.

Find out more and download your application form here