As entries open for this year's prizes

The judges have been announced for this year’s Comedy Women in Print prizes, as entries open today.

There will be two prizes, for published and unpublished novel.

In the first category Chocolat author Joanne Harris will chair the panel that also includes Maureen Lipman, Steph McGovern,Susan Wokoma and writer Cathy Rentzenbrink.   

Journalist Sarah Shaffi chairs the judging panel for the unpublished novels, alongside Martha Ashby, editorial director at HarperFiction, broadcasters Faye Brann and Gloria Hunniford, stand-up Thanyia Moore, and Dr Jennifer Young, head of writing and journalism at Falmouth University.

The Comedy Women in Print prizes, were created by  comedian Helen Lederer, and are now in their third year.

She said: ‘To my complete delight (and just a little shock!) CWIP has gathered even more support in its third year: laughter and reading has never been more valued or needed. 

‘I thought it might be a struggle in lockdown, but more people than ever want to be told about the funniest book to read and celebrate witty writers. I hope CWIP has offered a way through isolation by celebrating funny books and encouraging new writing’

 Entries for this year’s competition close on May 28, with more details on the awards website. 

Published: 12 Apr 2021