LEAFING through the anthology of sparkling prose and poems showcased at last year's Anne Pierson Award for Young Writers, which has just been published, my mind flicked briefly to the competition's presentation night at the Brewery Arts Centre and the high standard of writing that was aired.

Although the event was rather drawn out in places, it provided an excellent platform for new blood on the writing front as well as a fitting tribute to former Brewery director, Anne Pierson, both in recognition of her achievement in developing the Kendal venue into one of the finest arts centres in the UK and her drive to provide opportunities for young people to realise their creative potential.

The competition was set up by the Trustees of the Brewery Arts Centre.

Now, in its second year, the award's theme this time around is The Last Time. Due to the festive holidays and exam schedules for schools, the organisers have decided to extend the deadline for submissions to the end of January.

Open to 15-18 year olds who live in Cumbria, the work should be either a short story, a piece of descriptive prose, a monologue, a poem or poems or any combination of those genres and not exceeding three sides of A4.

The winner will be chosen from a shortlist of 20 and receive £400. Two runners up each get £200 with book tokens for the remainder of those short listed, who will be able to hear excerpts of their work read at the awards ceremony.

Full details, conditions of entry and forms for the award are available from the Brewery's box office on 01539-725133.

A completed entry form must accompany entries and there should be only one submission per person.

Janni Howker, Jacob Polley and Professor Philip Edwards return to judge this year's competition.