Open Competitions 2026 Rules
# NAWG Open Competitions 2026
## Rules
1. Entries must be in English and typed, or printed, on one side of white A4 paper. Alternatively, they can be submitted online or by email as a Word file.
2. Stories must be a minimum of 500 words but must not exceed 2,000 words.
3. Poems can be any style, maximum 40 lines.
4. Handwritten entries are _**not**_ permitted.
5. Stories and poems must be for adults.
6. Pages must be numbered.
7. Do not put your name or any other identifying marks on your manuscript, or within the email attachments.
8. Stories or poems must not have been previously published nor should they have won a prize in another competition.
9. The judge's decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into.
10. Entries received after the closing date and time will not be judged, nor fees refunded. Postal entries postmarked by the closing date will be accepted.
11. Email and online entries will _**not**_ be acknowledged **unless specifically requested by an email**. Print entries will **only** be acknowledged if accompanied by a stamped, addressed postcard.
12. Entries with insufficient postage will not be accepted.
13. Winning entries may be published on the NAWG website, in _Link_ magazine or the annual NAWG anthology.
14. Copyright remains with the author.
15. Entry is deemed acceptance of these rules.
16. Entrants may win more than one prize. Entries will not be returned.
17. Results will be announced by 30th November 2026.
18. Entries that break any competition rule may be disqualified. Fees will _**not**_ be refunded.
## Online Entries (preferred)
Go to [nawg.co.uk/competitions-open](https://nawg.co.uk/competitions-open).
## Email Entries
Send a message to: #W2NvbXAtb3BlbkBuYXdnLmNvLnVrXShtYWlsdG86Y29tcC1vcGVu#@nawg.co.uk), with the subject `'NAWG 2026 Open Comps'` and attach your Word formatted entry. Please give entry form details, including how you are paying, in the body of the message or as a separate attachment.
## Postal Entries
Send three copies, plus the entry form, cheque (and postcard for acknowledgement) to:
```text
NAWG 2026 Open Competitions
Darzona
Quenchwell Road
Carnon Downs
Truro
Cornwall
TR3 6LZ
```