Young Writers inspired by Winston Graham

A group of young writers gathered at Waterstones for the presentation evening of the inaugural Winston’s Wordsmiths prize — a new short story competition celebrating Cornish-themed historical fiction inspired by the work of Winston Graham, renowned author of the Poldark novels.

The competition, open to young writers across Cornwall, inspired stories set in dramatic moments of the region’s past, from WWII bombings and gunpowder production to tales of pirates and wreckers.

The evening celebrated both shortlisted writers and winners. Congratulations to 1st Year,  Kit H for winning the Junior Category and in the Senior Category 4th Year pupils, Leah F, Jack B H, and Arlo C were all shortlisted, with the top prize being awarded to Eva S for her story, ‘The Wreckers’.

Prizes included Waterstones vouchers, passes to the Cornwall Museum, and exciting writing workshops for schools, set to take place this autumn.

Congratulations to all these young writers who brought Cornwall’s rich history to life through their words. Please see some of the stories below.