BUDDING writers are invited to enter a county-wide radio and audio drama competition. Essex Book Festival has announced the launch of Making Waves, a competition open to anyone over 16 who lives, works or studies in Essex.

Anyone who enjoys writing or wants to kick-start their writing career can enter.

Participants are asked to submit a ten to 15 minute piece of radio or audio drama on the theme of Horizons.

Five shortlisted writers will be selected by an independent panel of judges and will be invited to attend the BBC Radio Drama studio, in London, to observe a new play being recorded, and have their work developed by BBC Radio Drama producer, Jessica Dromgoole.

They will also have their finished piece recorded by Colchester-based audio theatre company, Frequency Theatre, and a podcast made of the recording on both www.frequencytheatre.co.

uk and www.essexbook festival.org.uk throughout the Essex Book Festival, a month-long annual celebration of literature taking place next March. Mrs Dromgoole will also select an overall winner, who will receive £100 as well as the recording opportunity.

Entries must be received by October 31. To aid writers, Essex Book Festival will hold two workshops to give advice.

An Introduction to Radio Drama is at the Lord Ashcroft Building, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, on September 14, 11am until 4pm, led by Mrs Dromgoole. Producing Your Script, on October 12, 11am to 4pm, is at Lakeside Theatre, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, led by Mrs Dromgoole and award-winning playwright Katie Hims.

Workshops are limited to 20 places, so early booking is recommended. Workshops are £20, concessions £15 and University of Essex students pay £10.

There are discounts for booking both workshops.

Visit www.essexbook festival.org.uk/extra, e-mail andrew.ward@essex.gov.uk or call 01245 244615.