Caitlyn Neill, Crista Prado and Adrienne Moodie have taken top honours for their original works in the annual Ashburton Writers’ Short Story Competition.
Respectively, each won their age group in the under 11, 12-15 years, and adult categories.
The results were announced at a presentation, with special guest district councillor Carolyn Cameron, at the Ashburton Art Gallery last week.
Chief judge Mary Ralston, a writer, editor and self-confessed lover of short stories, said it took a skilled writer to excel in the short story format.
‘‘I really like short stories. They give a lot in a small package,’’ Ralston said.
‘‘They are not small novels, but they are a particular type of fiction and a satisfying read in a small space of time.
“Novels can go on for 400 pages, but with a short story, every word has to count.
“There are no unnecessary characters, there’s no sub-plot, there’s no unnecessarily described events.
‘‘It all has to count and you come to a satisfying point… you’re left with something quite satisfying – a new thought, a revelation.’’
She said it was important to write about something you know, it came through in the story.
Originality, imagination, structure and the strength of the main event all helped.
‘‘Congratulations to everyone who entered and to the winners.’’
Ashburton Writers’ Group member, and competition organiser, Coby Snowden said the standard of writing for the competition was very high.
She said the number of children’s entries were down on previous years, but up in the adult categories.
‘‘Getting children to stick to writing is a challenge but I’m delighted that many did. We read some really great stories. We did receive more adult submissions this year and we’re delighted that many of you still pursue the art of short story writing.
‘‘We read many entertaining and thoughtful stories, some were true accounts. Whatever you like to write, I think just keep writing.’’
Snowden said she was grateful for the support of the district council and its Creative Community Grant, as well as Paper Plus Ashburton for ongoing support and enthusiasm for the competition.
‘‘We love offering this competition to our community.’’
■ Read each of the winning stories in our free digital edition online at: Ashburton Courier | Digital Edition
