BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show host Chris Evans today launched his children’s story writing competition 500 WORDS for 2014.
Returning to the national station for its fourth year, 500 WORDS will ask children aged 13 and under to put pen to paper to compose an original work of fiction using no more than 500 words.
Bob Shennan, Controller of BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music, said: “If anything sums up Radio 2’s commitment to being totally distinctive, it is 500 WORDS. Putting a children’s short story writing competition at the heart of the nation’s best and favourite music breakfast show is the perfect definition of public service broadcasting at its best and boldest. I take my hat off to Chris and the team.”
Celebrities including Kylie Minogue, Gary Lineker, Tom Odell, Rob Brydon and others reveal their favourite words and writing tips in a special video.
Chris Evans says: “500 WORDS provides a glimpse into the brilliant minds of kids around the country. These stories will amuse, thrill, delight and inspire you. So please: spread the word about 500 WORDS. And if you’re aged 13 and under, get writing!”
Last year’s competition attracted over 90,000 entries.
Richard Hammond is also involved again this year. He says: “I’m staggered to be asked back: my most important contribution to last year’s prestigious event was making coffee. Maybe that’s why. But it is a real privilege to be involved. The standard of writing and limitless scope of imagination last year took my breath away and I look forward to having it taken away again this year.”
The competition closes at 7pm on Wednesday 26 February.
Posted on Monday, January 20th, 2014 at 9:36 am by RadioToday UK