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Young writers are urged to send in their entries for the British Council's 75th Anniversary Short Story Writing Competition by Tuesday.

The competition aims to promote literacy and creativity, tapping into the minds of aspiring young writers in the region and giving them a platform to launch a potential writing career. It also gives teachers new ideas and material for English lessons, to inspire students in the classroom in schools across Bahrain.

Writers are asked to create an original short story so that the first letters of each new line spell out the words 'British Council is 75' when read vertically. The competition is open to residents aged 12-18 years living in the Middle East - GCC, Yemen and Iraq - and will be judged in two age groups: 12-15 years and 16-18 years.

Prizes on offer include a brand new laptop, an iPod, electronic dictionaries and British Council goodie bags.

Details and official entry forms can be found on the British Council's website www.britishcouncil.org/me by clicking on the 75th Story banner on the home page. Those wishing to enter will find guidelines and sample entries as well as the official entry form. There is a format to be followed and a challenge to create an imaginative ending using the number 75.

Following the closing date, entries will be judged over the summer by a panel of British Council teachers and specially invited guests. They will assess entries on the basis of English writing skills, originality and creativity. Winners will be notified in October with prizes awarded at a ceremony in November during the British Council's 75th Anniversary week.

For details contact 39981586 or email moayed.rabeea@britishcouncil.org.bh