The Guernsey Literary Festival has officially launched a new short story competition called ‘Time & Tide’, which will result in a published anthology celebrating Bailiwick writers.
The competition is open to anyone aged 18 and over who was born in or currently lives in the Bailiwick.
The “Guernsey Short Story Anthology” comes from a collaboration with local businesses, including Blue Ormer, who will publish the anthology.
The festival’s director, Claire Allen, said the project is a way to give voice to local stories and points of view: “This anthology is about amplifying local stories and perspectives. It’s the first publication of its kind supported by the Festival, and we’re excited to celebrate the islands’ literary talent in this new way.”
Meanwhile Steve Foote, Publisher at Blue Ormer added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the depth and originality of Guernsey’s writing talent, and we’re proud to help bring these stories to life.”
There’s further messages of collaboration to come, with support from Sarnia Hotels and U&US, and Art for Guernsey planning to commission a local artist to create the cover.
David Ummels, founder of Art for Guernsey: “At Art for Guernsey, we’re passionate about celebrating local creativity in all its forms. This partnership allows us to connect visual art with storytelling in a way that reflects the richness and diversity of Guernsey’s cultural landscape.”
The theme for the inaugural edition is ‘Time & Tide’, inviting writers to explore subjects such as memory, transformation, and the distinct rhythms of island life in their stories.
Ross Raisin, an award-winning novelist, and judge for the 2025 BBC NSSA, will reviewing the stories as the competitions main judge, whilst Guernsey-based writer, Ben Hinshaw, (author of Exactly What You Mean), will be the competition’s filter judge.
Mr Raisin, said he’s pleased to be helping provide an opportunity for fledgling writers: “Island communities have a distinct perspective on place, identity and change – all themes that make for powerful fiction. It’s a pleasure to be part of a project that nurtures emerging writers and celebrates local voices.”
Submissions for stories of up to 2,500 words will be accepted between 1 September and 30 November 2025. The finished book will be launched at the 2026 Guernsey Literary Festival.