The long-running West End musical Wicked is proud to announce the third year of its hugely successful Wicked Young Writers’ Award.

Spearheaded by author of War Horse and former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo, the Award recognises excellence in writing, encourages creativity, and helps develop writing talent.

The award is open to young people in age categories from five to 25 years old, and entries can range from stories, to poems, to drama and illustrations.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall will continue as Patron of the Award, joined by judges Michael McCabe, Executive Producer of Wicked, William Fiennes, author and founder of literacy charity First Story, and Jonathan Douglas, director of the National Literacy Trust. Throughout 2012, the Award will have a presence at literary festivals and conferences in association with the National Literacy Trust, including involvement in writing workshops at the 2012 Hay Festival.

Michael Morpurgo praised the scheme, saying: "The Wicked Young Writers’ Award is something very close to my heart. Last year my fellow judges and I were delighted to read so many stories that were passionately felt and honestly written down, and where the young writers had found their own unique voices. I’m looking forward to another successful year.”

Young people can submit entries until Tuesday 31 July 2012. A shortlist of 100 finalists will be announced in the autumn, followed by a special showcase of the winners’ entries at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre, home of the award-winning musical.

Get involved at WickedYoungWriters.com