ENTRIES are now open for one of the most prestigious book awards in the country.

Amateur and professional writers can enter any book published in 2018 and set in Cumbria into the 2019 Lakeland Book of the Year Awards.

The competition was founded 35 years ago by Hunter Davies and is supported by Cumbria Tourism.

Mr Davies, as the head judge, will be joined by broadcaster Eric Robson, chairman of Cumbria Tourism, and author and journalist Fiona Armstrong.

Mr Robson said: “The Lakeland Book of the Year Awards - now in their 35th year and still going strong - are one of the most prestigious awards in the country and I am proud to be a long-term supporter.

"Cumbria and the Lake District are home to some of the most inspiring landscapes in the world and every year I am blown away by the staggering range and quality of entries we receive. It’s a delight and a privilege to read every single one of them."

The deadline for submissions is March 22 and the six prestigious prizes will be presented the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal on July 16. Visit www.lakelandbookoftheyear.co.uk or call Cumbria Tourism on 01539 822 222 to enter.