Chance for short story writers in Leeds to further their skills

The Northern Short Story Festival Academy is open to new applications.

Over the last two years, the Academy has helped develop 12 writers from Yorkshire, and is now seeking its next intake.

Participants will join a monthly workshop critique group. led by writer Anna Chilvers, where they will read and critique each other’s stories.

Current Academicians include a Pushcart nominee, national prize winners, the winner of the Walter Swan Writing Prize, and a Best of British Short Stories anthology author.

It is free to apply, but you must be aged 18 or over and resident in the Yorkshire region with demonstrable evidence of your short story writing.

For full information, visit: https://tinyurl.com/yxgda4ar

Fiona Gell, director of the Leeds Big Bookend and Northern Short Festival, said, “Our current intake of 12 writers are proof that the Academy process works.

“We cannot wait to meet our new writers. We are very grateful to Arts@Leeds and Leeds City Council, and The Walter Swan Trust for their continued support.”

Academician Lizzie Hudson said, “The support I have received from the Northern Short Story Festival has been a big part of my development as a writer in the last two years. Anna

Chilvers’ workshops were a really exciting and creative space, and the one-to-one mentorship I received has also been very valuable. I encourage Yorkshire-based writers to apply!”

The Northern Short Story Festival Academy is part of The Leeds Big Bookend and Northern Short Story Festival.

Story tellers: Academicians at a showcase event for their work last year. Photo: Izzy Brittle