Grist – a bi-annual anthology of some of the best writing from around the world, have just announced the launch of the Grist Creative Writing Competition and as with last year’s competition there are two categories – short fiction and poetry, with big cash prizes and publication to be won.

The judges this year are Helen Simpson (short fiction) and Lemn Sissay (poetry). The theme is completely open so you can write about anything you’d like, up to a maximum of 3,500 words (double spaced) for short stories, and up to 40 lines (single spaced) for poetry. There is no limit to how many poems or stories you may submit but your entry must be accompanied by the entry fee of £5 per poem or short story.

First prize in each category is £500, second is £250, and third is £100; in addition there will be publication for all shortlisted writers. The closing date is Tuesday, 30^th November 2010, and you can enter online or by post.

You can find more details, including full competition rules and how to enter, on the website at: www.hud.ac.uk/grist