The Bill Budner Trophy remains as popular as ever, but the competition this evening saw the largest entry in its history.
Fifteen people attended, fourteen entered and, from the very first story we all knew we were in for a brilliant night. There was a concern when Beryl, one of our two readers was unable to attend because of illness. Cathy made a plea for someone to step in and read half of the entries and there couldn't have been anyone better than Kay. Thanks to both Kay and Cathy for a superlative job reading around 14,000 words between them.
The consequence of so many entries meant the totting up of the votes didn't start until around 9.45 but, fortunately, there were no problems as the top three stories gained the most support.
Then came the results, in reverse order:
In third place, with her entry "Singing for Health" was one of our newest members, Jane H.
Runner-up, with his entry "Monkey" was Martin who recently rejoined after a lengthy absence.
The deserved winner with her entry "Breaking the Silence" was Jane B who was attending her first meeting for some time. Jane is making a habit of winning this trophy, this being the fourth deserved victory.
Well done to not only our top three, but also to every other writer who produced work worthy of winning and made this probably the highest standard of entries we have ever had. As the only non-entrant said, "These stories are worthy of being broadcast on the BBC."
Maybe its time for a podcast or something along those lines!
Our next meeting, in three weeks time, is on 5th November when we hold another competition, this for the Mairead Reidy Crystal Ball Award for a story with a supernatural flavour to honour Mairead's love of all things ghostly and mystical. We, who knew her so well, all miss her terribly and this is a terrific way to honour her memory.
We do ask that your stories are between approximately 500 words and a maximum of 750 words. Bearing in mind how long it took to read out the entries tonight, a reduction in the word count is necessary. We ask that you include your word count at the top of your entry alongside the title but please, no identification marks at all. Also we ask that you use a minimum size font of 12 to make it easier for the readers. Thanking you for your co-operation.
Until next time,
Keep Scribbling!!!
