AMATEUR and professional writers from across the region have the chance of gaining widespread recognition for their work thanks to the 2019 Lakeland Book of the Year Awards.

Any book published in 2018 which is set in or features Cumbria is eligible for the awards, which were founded 35 years ago by renowned author Hunter Davies to celebrate the incredible variety and quality of work the region inspires.

An all star judging panel consisting of author and TV newscaster Fiona Armstrong, broadcaster and Cumbria Tourism chairman Eric Robson and Mr Davies himself will judge the winners of five categories and then the overall winner of the title of the Hunter Davies Lakeland Book of the Year 2019.

“The Lakeland Book of the Year Awards are one of the most prestigious awards in the country and I am proud to be a long-term supporter," said Mr Robson.

"Cumbria and the Lake District are home to some of the most inspiring landscapes in the world and every year I am blown away by the staggering range and quality of entries we receive – it’s a delight and a privilege to read every single one of them.”

Entries are now open for the prestigious competition, with the prizes being presented at a glittering charity awards event at the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal in July.

Deadline date for submissions is March 22 and entry forms are available at www.lakelandbookoftheyear.co.uk or by calling Cumbria Tourism on 01539 822 222.