THE deadline is looming for entries into a pioneering literary competition for A-Level students.

The acclaimed Lancaster Writing Awards are open to students across the North West and organisers are urging the Lake District's finest wordsmiths to get involved.

Entries are judged across three categories - literary criticism, prose fiction and poetry - with each winner receiving £200 as well as having their work published in literary journal Cake.

Now in its third year, the awards are organised by Lancaster University's English and Creative Writing Department and are judged by a panel including Terry Eagleton, one of the world's best-known literary critics, Paul Farley, one of Britain's most eminent poets; and Jenn Ashworth, a leading young British novelist.

Professor Sally Bushell, Head of English & Creative Writing at Lancaster, said: “The Lancaster Writing Awards is a unique event. It’s the only competition of its kind in the UK, open to sixth formers from any school or college in the North West.

“The awards celebrate emerging critical and creative talent. An ability to think creatively and write well is an essential skill, not only for those going on to study English or Creative Writing at university, but across all disciplines."

The long and short listed entries for the awards will be publicised via the university’s website and social media.

Entries are accepted until Saturday, February 28.