Local wordsmiths are being invited to write a new world into existence, with the launch of The Lane of Unusual Traders project by local lovers of literature, Tiny Owl Workshop. The prologue penned by author Chris White has already set the scene, now all you have to do is take your pick of 20 different story lots and contribute a 500-word piece of flash fiction or a 3000-word short story describing your individual plot and its inhabitants. You could dream up a boutique, a bar or a theatre – let your imagination help craft this street of fascinating stores in the imaginary city of Lind, Midlfell.

Submissions are now open, so browse the competition guidelines and get your flash fiction entries in by Thursday July 31 or your short story in by Sunday August 31. Pieces will be perused by a panel of judges with the best entries being selected to form a physical book, as well as potentially a range of alternative formats, like postcards or napkins.