The competition is open-themed and run on a quarterly basis.

The closing dates are 31 March, 30 June, 30 September, 31 December. If you miss a closing date you will be entered into the following quarter’s competition.

Stories received now are for inclusion in the competition closing on 31 March 2011.

Entry fee is £5 for the first story, £3 for additional stories.

Critiques are available for £5 per story.

First Prize is £250.

Second Prize is £100.

Third Prize is £50.

Winners will be notified within 4 weeks of the closing date.

Winners will be announced, and winning stories published on this site, within 6 weeks of the closing date.

For competition rules and details of how to enter visit: http://www.theshortstorycompetition.com