Airedale Writers' Circle is launching its 13th children's competition.

The contest, which last year attracted more than 400 entries from across the district, is open to anyone aged 13 and under.

There will be prizes for the winners and runners-up and, like last year, successful entries will be published in a booklet to be presented free to the victorious youngsters.

Children's author Steve Bowkett will present prizes and certificates at a special ceremony on Tuesday, May 13, at The Barn, East Riddlesden Hall (7.30pm). All winners, runners-up and certificate recipients - together with their families and teacher representatives - will be invited.

Entries can be submitted in two categories, stories and poems. They can be on any topic and be word-processed or hand written, but must be on white paper.

Poems can be of any length; short stories must be no longer than 1,500 words.

Prizes will be awarded in two age groups in each category, up to and including eight years and nine-to-13 years. Highly commended and commended certificates will also be presented.

There are no entry fees but there is a maximum of two entries per person.

Entry forms will be distributed to schools and will also be available from Reid's Bookshop, in Cavendish Street, Keighley; Keighley, Ilkley, Bingley and Skipton libraries, and Airedale Writers' Circle secretary Mrs Maureen O'Hara at 20 Glenhurst Avenue, Park Lane, Keighley BD21 4RJ (phone 01535 603119).

The closing date for entries is March 10.