The David Nobbs Memorial Trust, established after the death of the Reggie Perrin author, has launched its first annual comedy writing competition. The first prize of £500 as well as any runner-up prizes will be awarded after judges turn their critical eye on entries, which can be submitted from January 1 until January 15.

The Trust has been established by producers, performers and people who knew David, with the blessing of his family, to honour his memory by supporting new UK comedy writing.

The contest is aimed at those early in their writing career – but it is not totally ‘open door’. Entrants must be able to provide a broadcast credit for their written material and accompany their entry with a 500-word Statement of Intent, describing their writing career goals. The winner will be announced at Craft of Comedy 2017 in Llandudno on 1st April.

Trust chair, journalist Mary O’Hara said “Getting a foothold as a writer be it in sketch, book writing or sitcom, can be tough so we’ve decided to try to help those starting out. We’re running a competition in David’s name and will award a modest bursary that could help winners set aside some precious hours for writing. “

The Trust is supported by two of the late writer’s friends, who deserve the title comedy legends: Barry Cryer and Michael Palin, who said, “I knew David Nobbs from the very earliest days – when we were both struggling comedy writers. Throughout my subsequent career David was extraordinarily helpful and supportive. I’m delighted, through his name, to continue his help and support for new writing talent.”

Nobbs’ widow and Honorary President of the Trust, Susan Nobbs, added “I know that awarding a bursary to new writers, as a support at the beginning of their chosen career would have definitely appealed to David.”

Full details for the competition can be found at the Trust website here.