This £500 award is for the highest placed writer aged 60+ across poetry, short story, novel or flash fiction.
Why 60+?
The Never Too Late Award unlocks the hidden talent of older writers. Writers in later life often struggle to be seen despite a wealth of experience, creativity and stories to tell.
Championed by best selling author Kit de Waal (aged 64) and London Literary Agent, AM Heath (in business for over a century), this award aims to recognise success over sixty and a ‘never give up’ resilience that is the mainstay of writers.
‘What a privilege to be associated with this award! My first novel was published when I was 56, something I never imagined possible. There again, at 56 I was just getting my second wind (or possibly my third …) and even now at 64 I consider myself mid-career with a lot more to do and say. Thanks to The Bridport Prize and the Never Too Late Award, we can recognise the unique voice and hard work of older writers who are just getting started. Hoorah for us!’ Kit de Waal
It’s never too late
Kit de Waal’s journey embodies the aims of The Bridport Prize: to discover new writers and unheard voices whilst inspiring creative confidence.
Kit grew up in a working class family of five children in Birmingham with an Irish mother and Caribbean father. She left school at 16. Her memoir Without Warning & Only Sometimes tells this story.
Twice winner of The Bridport Prize, Kit returned as a judge, sponsored bursary places and today spearheads our under represented writers residency. Now in her mid 60s, Kit is a highly acclaimed writer of novel, memoir and TV drama. Her best selling novel, My Name Is Leon is on the English Literature GCSE school curriculum while her latest novel The Best Of Everything is published in April 2025.
Successful 60+ writers
Bonnie Garmus 65 Lessons in Chemistry
Anne Youngson 69 Meet Me at the Museum
Frank McCourt 66 Angela’s Ashes
Mary Wesley 70 The Camomile Lawn
There’s more
The winner will also receive a Zoom session with Mary-Anne Harrington from Tinder Press (part of Hachette) about the publishing industry and two signed copies of Kit de Waal’s books.
Eligible for the Never Too Late award?
To qualify for the award, please remember to tick the box confirming your age when you submit your poem, short story, flash fiction or novel to our 31 May 2025 competition deadline.
Remember, it’s never too late…
Good luck!
