Journalism training news

June 26 2008

On the road to a career as a motoring writer

Young writers are being invited to submit entries for a motoring journalism award.

The Sir William Lyons Award 2008 is promoted by The Guild of Motoring Writers and sponsored by Jaguar Cars Ltd in honour of its founder.

Entry is free and open to anyone between aged 17-23, as long as they are a British national resident in the UK.

The closing date is October 1. The winner will receive a trophy, a cheque for £1,500, two years' probationary membership of The Guild of Motoring Writers.

They also get the chance to spend time working in the editorial department of a leading motoring or motor sport magazine. Many past winners have gone on to become leading automotive writers, says the NCTJ, which is publicising the award.

Two articles should be submitted - 1. an interview with a figure closely involved with motoring or motorsport, 500 words written as a news story, and 2. a 1,000 word article on one of four subjects - Does the UK need to have a motor industry? What role should the motor industry play in helping to address today's environmental issues? Caring for pollution or congestion, what's the best way to manage traffic growth? or People only buy cars with their heads, not their hearts.

The judges will be looking for flair, style, enthusiasm and journalistic potential. Full details are on the entry form - available electronically in PDF format - from Patricia Lodge - email: generalsec@gomw.co.uk or via the Guild of Motoring Writers' website from July 1.