Young writers in Somerset are being invited to take part in a new story competition with a planet-saving twist.
Aimed at promoting food recycling, the contest, launched by Somerset Council in partnership with waste contractors Biffa and SUEZ, invites children aged four to 11 to write a short story on the theme 'The Great Somerset Food Recycling Adventure'.
It aims to build on the success of a similar competition in 2025.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, environment and climate change at Somerset Council, said: "We know children have fantastic imaginations, and this competition is a fun way to channel that creativity into an important message about food recycling.
"Every banana peel, apple core and leftover scrap recycled can help make a difference, and we hope this competition inspires families across Somerset to think about the part they can play.
"We’d like to give special thanks to Biffa for generously supporting the new school prize.
"I can’t wait to see the stories Somerset’s young writers come up with."
Sam Fisher, senior community liaison officer at SUEZ, said: "Children are often fantastic family representatives for recycling.
"I’m excited to read the creative ideas that will inspire siblings, parents and grand parents to do more with their food recycling.
"Our recycled food truly does go on a great adventure – to create valuable energy and fertiliser for a more sustainable Somerset.
"I can’t wait to see how the amazing stories bring this important message to life."
The competition offers a £30 book voucher for the winner, with five runners-up each receiving a £15 book voucher.
A new addition for this year is a £200 book voucher for one participating Somerset school, thanks to a donation from Biffa.
Stories must be no longer than 500 words and should focus on food recycling.
Children can find inspiration and further details at somerset.gov.uk/FoodCampaign.
Entries should be emailed to recycle@somerset.gov.uk by Monday, September 14.
Handwritten or printed submissions can also be dropped off at any Somerset library.
Each entry must include the child’s name, age, the email address or phone number of a parent or guardian, and their location.
Full terms and conditions are available on the council’s website.
