***STOP PRESS***
Hay Writers’ Circle
Richard Booth Prize for Non-Fiction 2026
***Submissions Now OPEN!***
Submissions are now invited for our annual Non-Fiction Competition, The Richard Booth Prize 2026, named after one of Hay-on-Wye’s most notable residents and it’s self proclaimed ‘King of Hay’. Richard was always a great supporter of books, Hay-on-Wye and of course, local writers.
Sadly, Richard passed away in 2019, but his name lives on everywhere in Hay, including this writing prize which he so graciously sponsored during his lifetime and we continue to honour in his memory.
This year we are thrilled to confirm that the judge for our Non-Fiction Competition is Ruth Pavey.
“Living mainly in London, Ruth has had a mixed career, as gardener, teacher of art and English, reviewer, gardening columnist and (not in London) woodland grower. She has written two illustrated books about her Somerset woodland-cum-orchard project; “A Wood of One’s Own” (a Sunday Times Book of the Year), and “Deeper into the Wood”, both published by Duckworth Books.
As a writer late to publication, she admires everyone who writes from the heart and doesn’t give up….”
For full competition guidelines and the entry form can be found on the following download :
Anyone can enter this competition. All entries must be in the English language, 500-1250 words, and we welcome entries from all over the world. The theme is entirely open. Original unpublished writing on any subject will be accepted. Closing date is Tuesday 7th July 2026. Any entries submitted after the closing date will not be considered. Good luck!