Young aspiring Penicuik author shortlisted

A budding young author from Penicuik has been shortlisted in a creative writing competition held by Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels.
Chloe Aitken from Penicuik, pictured with her story.Chloe Aitken from Penicuik, pictured with her story.
Chloe Aitken from Penicuik, pictured with her story.

Chloe Aitken (14) penned a short story for the competition which launched in February for National Storytelling Week.

Chloe is part of a shortlist of 30 stories which will feature in a bedtime storybook which will be available at all eight Crieff Hydro Family hotels.

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The panel of independent judge authors – John Bray, Helen Grant and Susy McPhee will pick just three overall winners who will also have their stories brought to life in illustration for the limited edition book.

The artists who will each illustrate one winning story are Charlotte Brayley, Dylan Gibson and The Grey Earl.

Judge and author John Bray said: “Reading these stories was an absolute joy but it was also extremely difficult to narrow down the shortlist. I wish it had been possible for all the stories to win. Many of the entrants have a clear talent for creative writing - such vivid imaginations - and I hope they all keep it up.”

Work will begin shortly to create the book for summer and if restrictions allow, shortlisted entries including Aaron and Alasdair will be welcomed to a Mini Book Festival at Crieff Hydro Hotel in July.

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Nic Oldham, head of customer and Commercial at Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said: “We were thrilled to receive hundreds of competition entries that spread across the country and even overseas covering a wide array of subjects. There was everything from heart-warming tales to action adventures with mythical creatures and they certainly made the job difficult for our judges.

“We can’t wait to welcome the shortlisted entries to Crieff Hydro in July, if restrictions allow, to enjoy some family fun at our Book Festival and to be presented with their own copy of the limited edition story book. Thank you again to all of the entries and congratulations to our shortlist.”

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