A TOP writer and creative writing tutor has organised a short story writing competition and performance evening at the Wyvern Theatre.

Stephen Tuffin is looking for writers to enter the The Squat Pen Rests competition by Friday January 19 then do a live reading of their work at ‘The Place’ in the Wyvern at 7.30pm on Friday January 26.

First, entrants must write between 1,500 to 2,000 words on the subject of their choice, or use the prompt ‘new beginnings’ if they’re struggling to find inspiration.

Then all authors should send up to three stories to Mr Tuffin -it doesn’t matter if the stories have been published or performed before.

The tutor has asked for each writer to send in £3 via Paypal with their short story submission as compensation for the time it takes for him to read and judge each of them.

The authors of the best six stories will be picked to read their short story at the Wyvern in front of an audience. Each of the six successful entrants will be notified by January 22 and receive free entry to the event plus one complimentary ticket.

All finalists will receive a mug commemorating their success and have their short stories published online.

After the six stories have been read out, the audience will vote for the winner of the first ever The Squat Pen Rests Writing Competition, who will receive a £50 cash prize.

Audience members can book their tickets to the event, which cost £5.50 each, by visiting swindontheatres.co.uk

For more information on the competition and to find out how authors can send in their short stories, visit stephentuffin.co.uk