Books / Flash Fiction

Clevedon LitFest Flash Fiction Award goes national

By Sarski Anderson  Monday Jul 21, 2025

Clevedon LitFest is welcoming UK-wide entries to its Flash Fiction Award for 2025.

With a maximum word count of just 500 words, the competition is looking for writers who are able to conjure an impactful and evocative story in which a clear shift takes place – even for those that don’t choose to follow a conventional narrative arc.

The winning entrant will receive £200 prize money, with a pair of £25 runner-up prizes also to be won.

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The competition will be judged by Clevedon-based writer, editor and workshop leader Judy Darley, who has published three short story collections, and novelist Jackie Hayles (Shadows of Time; Nana Boo), who has also taught creative writing for many years.

Judy Darley – photo: Jo Mary Butler

Both judges have wide-ranging experience of judging writing competitions, as well as being enthusiastic readers of all the entries.

“I want to be moved by what I read”, notes Darley. “A flash fiction tale should work like a pebble dropped into a pool of water, casting ripples that travel beyond the page. “I want to read stories that ignite my imagination and capture my heart.”

For Hayles, the power of the written word is in conveying the author’s intention into the heart and mind of the reader.

“I’m looking for writing that prompts a response in me, draws me into its world through originality, impact and engaging characterisation, with a hook and a story arc that make me want to read to the end”, she reflects.

“I want to feel the power of language use in transporting me or stirring my emotions, carefully crafted for maximum effect.”

 

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For a list of rules and full details of how to enter the Clevedon LitFest Flash Fiction Award, visit www.clevedonlitfest.org.uk. The closing date is August 8.

Main photo: Mark Bessell / Shutterstock

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