BUDDING storytellers are being given the chance to have their writing published, win thousands of pounds and to meet famous author Jilly Cooper.

The Wills Writing Awards see authors in three age groups, from under 15s, under 19s and those under 26 pen factual or fictional stories with a horseracing theme.

The awards were launched in 1993 in memory of journalist and amateur jockey Martin Wills and are now in their 22nd year.

But this year the winner of the under 26 category has the unique opportunity to have a literary lunch with Jilly Cooper and Brough Scott, chairman of the awards judges and a leading sports journalist and author.

Brough Scott said: "The Wills Awards hold a unique place in the racing industry and I don’t think you’ll find any other sport that offers such a brilliant opportunity to launch a journalistic career and get on the industry’s radar. After 22 years they are still going strong with some of today’s top sporting journalists having graced our doors."

Those interested should submit a single article by Friday, February 28, via willswritingawards.co.uk.

The winners will be announced and presented at Newmarket’s prestigious Craven Meeting on Wednesday, April 16, when all prize winners will be given an expenses paid day’s racing.