Children invited to enter Premier Inn story competition

Youngsters are being urged to enter a writing competition being run by Premier Inn, and become a published author.

The chain, which is in the process of building a hotel in Thurso, is searching for young UK literary talent to help it publish a children’s short story book packed with original tales.

Part of the book will be dedicated to bedtime stories to help encourage a great night’s sleep, while uniquely the other part will be dedicated to stories designed to be read in the morning, to inspire young people to get their day off to the best possible start.

Youngsters aged 15 and under can submit an original 500-word short story around the theme of relaxation or inspiration. Stories can be inspired by their own real-life experiences or something from the depths of their imagination.

The hotel company will publish a diverse collection of tales, so stories revolving around friendship, families, animals or even science fiction are all welcome, providing they slot into the themes.

Premier Inn experts and an panel of judges will crown national prizewinners in two categories: under-10s and ages 11-15. In addition there will be 12 regional runners-up.

At the launch of the nationwide competition in the lead-up to Christmas, children being cared for at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London were treated to story readings by Father Christmas and his festive elves. Premier Inn is a long-standing supporter of the Great Ormond Street children’s charity and the winning stories will be available for a donation, with all proceeds donated to the hospital.

Simon Ewins, managing director at Premier Inn UK, said: “We help millions of people to have a great night’s sleep and wake up ready for whatever the day holds, so we’re thrilled to launch our young people’s short story competition which will uncover exciting new stories to help encourage a restful night’s sleep, and get their day off to the best possible start.

"We’re all huge fans of the traditional bedtime story and, as a great night’s sleep is also all about setting you up for the day ahead, we thought it would be a fun twist to launch the UK’s first ‘wake up-time’ story collection. The UK is bursting with talented young people and we can’t wait to start receiving the stories."

The closing date for entries is March 31. The prize also includes a two-night stay at a Premier Inn of the winner’s choice.

Young authors can submit their stories by emailing StoryPremierInn@golin.com

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