Just in case there are any budding authors out there, I just thought I should let you all know about a competition thats running;

" Channel 4's IDEASFACTORY Scotland has launched a new project for writers which ends with the chance to take the ultimate 'Dream Journey'.

IDEASFACTORY:WRITE AWAY aims to find young writers (approx 16-35) who want to develop their writing skills. Running through until 2005, it will start with the delivery of an interactive CD Rom packed with practical exercises to start writing, top tips from industry professionals, and information on how to win the career development opportunity of a lifetime.

Write Away invites prospective writers to submit a short 500-word article on a personal journey or adventure they've made, along with the idea for a journey they would most like to take and write about. Sixteen entrants will then be selected to take part in a series of Masterclasses near Inverness led by some of the country's most successful travel writers, publishers and commissioners from print and the media. Four finalists will go on to professional writing industry placements with the chance to turn their dream journey into reality and see their writing translated into print or moving image.

To get involved, all you have to do is register on the website www.channel4.com/ideasfactoryscotland "


Just in case anyone knows someone who might be interested...