Residents across Solihull West & Shirley are being invited to take part in a new short story competition to mark the National Year of Reading 2026.
The campaign, the largest of its kind in a generation, aims to encourage people of all ages to rediscover the joy of reading and to make it part of everyday life. Reading not only broadens horizons and sparks imagination, but also offers a moment of calm in an increasingly busy world.
To celebrate this important national initiative, local MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst has launched the Solihull West & Shirley Short Story Award, open to entrants of all ages and writing across all genres.
Participants are invited to submit original short stories of up to 2,000 words. The competition provides a platform for aspiring writers, students, and seasoned storytellers alike to showcase their creativity and contribute to a nationwide celebration of literature.
Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
“I am delighted to launch this competition as part of the National Year of Reading. We have a wealth of creative talent across Solihull West & Shirley, and this is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to share their stories. I encourage everyone to get involved and let their imagination shine.”
The deadline for submissions is Friday 3rd July 2026. Entries should be sent via email to [email protected].
