THE launch of the Vale of Evesham’s first AsparaWriting Festival gives the opportunity to write a story to fit into the crime genre.

The dark winter evenings were made for turning the thoughts of history and mystery, together with a hint of asparagus, into a prize-winning tale, said Angela Tidmarsh, of the Vale of Evesham Asparagus Festival.

Stories of no more than 6,000 words or 3,000 for juniors, must be set in the Vale of Evesham or Cotswolds and include asparagus.

The competition is the foundation of the AparaWriting Festival and entries must be received by the end of Marsh ready for judging when the festival events begin at the start of the British asparagus season on St George’s Day.

Mrs Tidmarsh said: “The AparaWriting Festival is a relaxing, fun and uniquely writer-led series of two-day events throughout the asparagus season where people can learn about writing, Worcestershire, asparagus and all things related.

“Ten professional writers will lead workshops to help aspiring authors, as well as giving talks.”

A grand finale at Evesham Library will draw the festival to a close with the announcement of the competition winners and the presentation of prizes by crime novelist Simon Brett. A book of the best stories entered will also be published.

The three age categories are adult (17 plus), juniors 7- 11 and 12-16. Entry costs £10 for adults and £5 for juniors with a £100 prize for adults and £20 book tokens for the junior categories. Visit asparawritingfestival.co.uk for details or pick up a programme from the Almonry or Evesham Library.