Age UK is encouraging residents to put pen to paper, or fingers to keyboards, for their Winter writing challenge.

The charity is asking over 55s to “dip into your memory bank and make a withdrawal” – uncovering stories inspired by what is happening, or has happened, in their lives.

The prompt, “a memorable moment, event or day,” could see stories about school days, wedding days or working life.

The maximum word limit is 800s words but the charity is open to tales of 300 words or less, reminding readers that Hemingway is credited with writing the shortest story ever: “For sale, baby shoes, never worn”.

Applicants can read former entries from the charity's Summer ‘Wish you were here’ competition on Age UK Richmond’s website.

Richmond resident Heather Beagley wrote her memories of being a passenger on the maiden voyage of HM Queen Mary in 1934.

The winner will receive the Trustee Chair’s Choice prize, while other awards will be given at random.

Prizes include afternoon teas at the Wharf, book tokens and tickets to Strawberry Hill House and Turner’s House.

A selection of entries will be published on Age UK Richmond’s website, so the public can enjoy residents’ stories.

Entrants must submit their writing by midnight on 14 February 2021. They must be over 55 years of age and a resident in the borough of Richmond Upon Thames.

The winner will be announced on 09 March 2021.

Stories can be posted to Marie Therese Keegan, Age UK Richmond, Twickenham Wellbeing Centre, Arragon Road, TW1 3NH or email (in pdf or word) mt.keegan@ageukrichmond.org.uk.