Someone asked me what my writing strategy is the other day. "Scattergun," was my response.

However, I have been entering short story competitions fairly regularly. Usually I enter the day before the deadline and frantically push myself to knock stories into shape (usually editing down). I find the pressure concentrates the mind and sharpens the pen.

I'm pleased to say my (excellent) story 'In Between Days' was placed in the top 32 of the 'To Hull and Back' competition. Added to this I was in the Top 11 of the Ifanca Helene James Short Story Competition.

Obviously winning is an over-rated concept, man! Top 32 - it doesn't get better than that!

More news from the literary front line soon. Has anyone bought my book recently? I hear it's really cheap these days! Christmas is coming. Just saying'.

Cheers

Tim

* The ruined gatehouse at Bramber Castle subtly suggests a more honest aspiration.