JUDGING PROCeSS - ALL COMPEtitioNS (UPDATED 23rd FEB 2026)

We’re a small competition, but we care a lot about doing things well and about giving writers a genuinely good experience.

 1) We like entries that push the prompts to their limits or you can just mention them in passing - it’s up to you. We seek originality, creativity, and uniqueness. The judges and I will only discount a story if there is absolutely no link to your chosen prompt(s).

2) With regards to the Booby Bonus (which is totally optional remember) you will need to weigh up the benefits of incorporating such an animal against the overall flow and cohesiveness of your entry, and remember the judges will (potentially) have lots of these stories to read, so originality is key! 

 1) The judges will consider

• Quality of Writing / Poetry or Illustration
• Originality
• Use of Prompts to tell a 'story'

2) As we have entrants from over 16 countries, we recognise that English may not be everyone’s first language. While entries must be in English, judges will allow a reasonable degree of flexibility (including US vs UK spelling).

3) Your entry will be judged anonymously by 4 different judges. Each judge will then rank their top 8 entries in order from 1st (best story) to 8th.

4) Using a Borda count ranking system (where higher-ranked entries receive more points) the shortlist will be created with the top 5 scoring entries making the list. Places 6 to 15 will receive an honourable mention.

5) If there are any ties then a count back system will be used, Most 1st’s, Most 2nd’s etc. If there is still a tie both stories will make it through to the shortlist / HM list.

6) The organiser’s decision is final.

1) The shortlist will be announced 6 weeks after the contest close date.

2) The winner will be announced 2 weeks after the above date.