AMBITIOUS young word-smiths are being offered a chance to get their writing careers off to a flying start.

Cumbria County Council's literature officer, Susan Tranter, is looking for six talented people to take part in its Six Pack Project.

Aged between 16 and 25, they must live, work or study in Cumbria.

The final six will receive tips from top novelist Toby Litt at an intensive weekend writing workshop.

They will also see their work published in a collection of short stories.

An added treat is the opportunity to work with professional actors and directors at Keswick's Theatre By The Lake, developing their work into a piece for performance.

Susan says anyone interested who has an eye for detail, an ear for dialogue and a nose for a story can take part in the Six Pack Project.

They should write a story on any theme, in any style, of no more than 8,000 words.

Extracts from longer pieces are acceptable, too.

Pieces should be sent by Friday, October 11, to Susan Tranter, at Cumbria County Council, Arroyo Block, The Castle, Carlisle, CA3 8UR.

Entrants should enclose a covering letter giving the writer's name, age, address and saying how long he or she has been writing and why they want to take part in the project.

A panel of judges will choose the six strongest entrants, who will be notified in writing by October 21.

Toby Litt will hold the workshop in Carlisle on November 2/3.

Help with getting to and from the workshop could be available.