Thirteen schools across Nottingham have signed up to take part in Nottingham Libraries’ first Young Storyteller Competition. Participating schools have chosen one person for each age group they are entering to go forward to the heats which start on 16th June.

The Young Storyteller Competition, launched in January 2008 is an initiative to teach young people the art of storytelling, through a competition to find the best young storytelling performers in Nottingham.

Storytelling is an exciting and accessible art form, which improves vocabulary and presentation skills, whilst building confidence and self esteem. Competitors will tell a 5-10 minute story on a subject of their choice and in their own style without books, notes or prompts.

The competition is split into 4 age categories 9 -11, 12 – 13, 14 – 16 and 17 – 18 year olds.

Clifton, Top Valley and Sneinton libraries are to host the competition heats. The winner from each group of schools will perform their story before an audience of family, classmates, teachers and librarians.

The final will take place in the Council House on 3rd July at 6.30pm. The judging panel is made up of Nottingham Storytellers, a group of local storytellers who perform regularly at venues such as the Old Trip to Jerusalem. They will award a trophy to the winner from each age category.

Deborah Sheppard, Service Development Librarian said: "Despite being in its first year, we’ve had a fantastic response to the competition and look forward to discovering some new young talent."

Councillor David Trimble, Portfolio Holder for Culture Leisure and Communities said: "The competition offers a great opportunity for local libraries and schools to work together, helping to build strong communities whilst teaching children important life skills."