A LIBRARY is running its first creative writing competition and encouraging local literary enthusiasts to get involved.

People have until the end of April to enter their short stories in the contest run by the Globe Community Library in Stokesley.

There are two categories, one for young writers aged between 14 and 17 and another for those aged 18 and over.

There will be a first prize of £100 and a £50 prize for the runner-up in both categories.

Library manager Jane Hall said: “There are no restrictions on the subject matter; as long as it hasn’t been published before.

“It’s our first contest and we’re trying to test out new ideas out with it being our first year and trying to promote more literature and literature-based activities in the Globe.”

Entry to the contest is free and entry forms are available to collect from the library at Town Close, off North Road in Stokesley or by emailing: library.theglobe@gmail.com

The closing date is 5pm on Monday, April 30.

The library, formerly Stokesley Library, was handed over to the community by North Yorkshire County Council last year, after severe budget cuts at the local authority meant the library was in danger of closing.

It reopened as The Globe and Stokesley Town Council now funds a professional manager to run the library who works with a team of volunteers.