Contest will be Thursday, November 30.

Last year we received 170 stories, 23 by adults and 147 by children under age 18.

The four judges were amazed at the vast number of stories written by children under 18 and the standard was exceedingly high, so high that 11 were awarded honourable mentions.

Although the judges were totally unaware of it until the reception, all of the child winners attended Bermuda High School for Girls as did most of the honourable mentions.

This is an excellent opportunity for school children to use their imaginations and write about humour, family traditions, nature, happiness, and perceptions depicting Bermudian themes related to Christmas.

Last year there were talking Christmas trees, vain angel fish, skinks, tree frogs, ghosts, lighthouses, and hungry wolves featured in the tales from children.

Joseph Galea's adult winner's story, `Presents from the Past', started with a walk on Elbow Beach and ended with a macabre twist.

Cash prizes will be presented in each of the two categories -- under 18s and adults. The winner in each section will receive $300 and the runner-up $200.

Two special awards of $100 will go to the authors of stories showing exceptional promise, regardless of category.

Stories must concentrate on the theme of Christmas and Bermuda! They may be up to 1,500 words long. Poems and essays are not acceptable.

Manuscripts must be typewritten on one side of the paper with double-line spacing.

The full name, address and telephone number of the author must be given. Pen names will not be accepted.

Manuscripts must be submitted to The Royal Gazette clearly marked Christmas Short Story Contest, and indicating the category entered.

Stories received after the deadline of 5 p.m. Thursday, November 30 will not be considered.

A panel of judges will decide winning entries and its decision will be final.

The Royal Gazette reserves the right to publish any or all of the stories submitted. Manuscripts will not be returned.

Employees of The Bermuda Press (Holdings) Ltd. are not eligible.