The David Nobbs Memorial Trust, established after the death of the Reggie Perrin author, has launched its third 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 today until 23rd June.
The David Nobbs Memorial Trust was established by comedy producers, performers and people who knew and loved David (pictured), with the blessing of his family, to honour his memory by supporting new comedy writing in the UK.
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 in August.
One of last year’s winners, Tom Ellen, said: “It was so encouraging, and it's really helped me take comedy writing more seriously. Since entering the contest, I've got two deals to write a couple of (hopefully) funny books."
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 are trying to help those starting out. We are thrilled to be running our third comedy writing competition in David’s name. David Nobbs was an passionate supporter of new talent and from the huge number of entries to our competitions to date, we know there is a rich pool of talent ready to make it to the next level and carry on a great comedy tradition.”
This year’s judging panel is chaired by Nerys Evans, Creative Director of Comedy at Expectation Entertainment and former commissioning editor at Channel 4 comedy, who is joined by writer and performer, Rufus Jones, fresh from his recent hit series, Home. A third judge is still to be announced.
The Trust is supported by two of David’s friends and who truly deserve the title comedy legends: Barry Cryer and Michael Palin.
Michael Palin says: “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.”
David 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: www.DavidNobbsMemorialTrust.org.uk
