Writers from across Staffordshire have been recognised for their creativity after winning Stafford Library’s short story competition, with their work now published in a new collection available to borrow from local libraries.

The winners were celebrated at a special awards event at Stafford Library on 17 October, attended by more than 50 guests, including family and friends. The competition was launched earlier this year as part of the National Year of Reading celebrations.

The 12 winning stories have been published by local publisher Dream Well in The Stafford Contemporary Collection, which is now available to borrow from selected libraries across Stafford Borough.

Former Staffordshire Poet Laureate Mel Wardle Woodend hosted the event and presented awards to the six adult winners. Staffordshire Young Poet Laureate 2025/26 Pearl Knight Dutton presented copies of the book to the six successful young writers, aged under 17.

Hayley Coles, Acting Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: “This competition has showcased the incredible creativity and storytelling talent we have here in Staffordshire.

“It’s wonderful to see writers of all ages inspired to put pen to paper and share their imagination with others. Congratulations to all of our winners on this fantastic achievement and for earning a place in this special collection.

“Libraries continue to play an important role in the heart of local communities, supporting reading, learning and providing access to important services.”

The winning entries span a range of themes and genres, with stories from adult writers, teenagers and younger children all featuring in the collection.

The adult winners were:

• Amidst the Mists - Bonny Jon Milkshed

• Before the Heath - James Croxton-Cayzer

• Notes by Cornflake - Claire Tallentire

• Ostara; Goddess of the Radiant Dawn - Melanie Baines

• River Sow’s Gift - Klaudia Martysiuk

• The Last Man - Victoria Wall

Winners aged 12–16:

• An Uncertain Journey - Millie Clay

• Correction - Chloe Collins

Winners aged 7–11:

• I Want to Race Swim! - William Sherratt

• Ninja Frogs: Chaos at Stafford Castle - Myles Bellerby

• The Real Hero - Meenakshi Kannan

• Zoo on the Loose - Georgia Rae Candlin

The competition celebrates the storytelling talent of local residents and highlights the role libraries play in encouraging reading, writing and creativity across the community.

For more information about library services and resources, visit the Staffordshire Libraries website.