THE closing day for the 26th 'Write a Story for Children Competition' is March 31 and readers need to hurry if they wish to enter.

This is the most prestigious competition for unpublished authors of children's books in the UK.

With over 2,000 entries received in 2010, it proved that writers everywhere are on the alert for this announcement every year.

The first prize in 2011 will be a cheque for £2,000, with second and third prizes of £300 and £200, respectively.

Entrants must be over 18 years of age and unpublished.

Entry forms, together with competition rules, are available from The Academy of Children's Writers, PO Box 95, Huntingdon, Cambs., PE28 5RL, on receipt of a stamped, addressed envelope or they may be downloaded by visiting the website http://www.childrens-writers.co.uk">www.childrens-writers.co.uk.

Details of winners will be sent to all entrants.